Wailing and crying as loudly as possible is not something most new mothers actively encourage in their babies. However, at the annual Naki Sumo (crying baby contest) in Japan, that is precisely the aim of the game.
Eager mothers bring the babies to the event where Sumo wrestlers and high priests are on hand to coax babies into a maddened state of wailing. The event, which marks the high point of spring, is held each year at the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo.
The baby to cry loudest and longest wins the contest. The competition is also intended to generate good health for the babies. This year Sumo wrestlers coaxed 80 babies, all less than a year old, to cry.
Participating Japanese parents believe the Sumo-induced cries are beneficial. As the babies are held high, mothers pray for their good health. The 400-year old ritual is also believed to ward off evil spirits.
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