The whale is buried in line with local customs. (Photo: baohatinh.vn)
According to the Thach Hai commune People's Committee, local fishermen spotted the 1.5-meter-long whale and promptly notified authorities. Following local customs, the animal was later buried with due respect.
Whale worship is a long-standing tradition among Vietnamese fishermen, who believe the creatures' spirits offer protection at sea. It is customary for them to rescue stranded whales whenever possible and to hold burial and worship ceremonies for those that perish, often at whale temples.