In August 1968, factory workers overheard news of a mandatory meeting. Whispered rumors described shipments of a gift from the country's Communist leader, Chairman Mao Zedong. And sure enough, managers soon distributed a gift to every factory worker– a glass box encasing a golden wax replica of a mango. What was the meaning behind this unusual offering? Vivian Jiang investigates. [Directed by Kayu Leung, narrated by Pen-Pen Chen].

Vivian Jiang: Mao Zedong's infamous mango cult

Mao Zedong's infamous mango cult

In 1968, Mao's gift of mangoes to factory workers morphed into a cult, symbolizing loyalty amid the Cultural Revolution's chaos.

Mao's mangoes served as a propaganda tool, transforming from a gesture of gratitude into a litmus test for political fidelity.

The frenzy around Mao’s mangoes reveals the complexity of political symbols, intertwining with power, fear, and devotion.