YEAR OF THE TIGER - TALE BEHIND THE CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR

2022 marks the year of the tiger in the Chinese zodiac. We reflect on the diverse depictions in popular culture of tigers, among the most threatened of the world's big cats.

Let's go back in time to further understand about Chinese's Lunar Year. February 1 is the first day of the Chinese New Year this year. Also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, the festival marking the advent of spring is widely celebrated in China and several East Asian countries.

Families traditionally gather during this time to share sumptuous meals, while children are often given gifts of money in red packets known as "hong bao."

The start of the Lunar Year also marks the rotation of the Chinese zodiac that runs over a 12-year cycle, each represented by an animal.

There are several stories explaining the zodiac: One legend goes that the Jade Emperor — an important Chinese deity — had invited all the animals to a "great race," with the first 12 winning his favor.

The 12 who made it in order of appearance are the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.