Nezha | Marshal of the Central Altar | Third Prince
Nezha is a lively and powerful child deity, wielding the Fire-tipped Spear and riding Wind Fire Wheels. He protects children and, due to his speed, is also the patron saint of drivers. The modern implementation of 'Techno Prince' (dancing to electronic music) has made him a global cultural icon of Taiwan.
Legend says Nezha killed a dragon prince and committed suicide to save his parents from the Dragon King's wrath ('returning bones to father, flesh to mother'). His master resurrected him using lotus flowers. He then helped overthrow the tyrant King Zhou. He represents courage and rebellion.
Nezha is worshipped as both a protector of children and a patron saint of drivers. Parents bring children to Nezha temples to pray for safe growth, while taxi and truck drivers often place a small Nezha figurine on their dashboards for protection. Offerings include fruits, candies (since Nezha is a child deity), and toy-like items. Spirit mediums channeling Nezha are famous for their acrobatic performances, including standing on ball-shaped objects and performing martial arts moves. The modern "Electric Techno Nezha" (Dian Yin San Tai Zi) phenomenon — where temple performers dance to electronic music in LED-lit Nezha costumes — has become a globally recognized symbol of Taiwanese folk culture.
Nezha's birthday falls on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. Major celebrations are held at temples across Taiwan, featuring spirit medium performances and processions. The "Techno Nezha" (Dian Yin San Tai Zi) performances have become a cultural phenomenon, appearing at international events and even the 2017 Taipei Universiade. The Xinying Taizi Temple in Tainan hosts one of the most elaborate Nezha birthday celebrations, combining traditional rituals with modern performances that showcase how ancient beliefs adapt to contemporary culture.
Nezha (Third Prince)
Exorcism, Guardian of Children, Patron of Drivers