'Calabash Grandpa' shows people love to judge every simple deed

In recent weeks, the story of the "Calabash Grandpa" from Shaoxing in Zhejiang province, has unfolded like an unscripted drama, capturing the attention of social media users.

Chen Jin'ao, 75, and his wife Shen Hualing had been living a quiet closed-off life after losing their only child 25 years ago. Their secluded existence was suddenly thrust into the public spotlight when Chen decided to grow seven gourds on his riverside balcony. His intention was to beautify his home, bring himself joy and offer a pleasant sight to passersby.

And passersby came in throngs from across the river to catch a glimpse of the "seven brothers" and their caretaker, as the gourds reminded people of a cherished 1980s animated series Calabash Brothers — a 13-episode paper-cut animation series that tells the story of seven magical calabashes and seven brothers with extraordinary abilities who, one after another, strive to rescue their loved ones and engage in a battle of wits with evil spirits.

Videos of tourists addressing Chen, with his white hair and gentle demeanor, as "Calabash Grandpa" went viral, drawing even more visitors. Livestreaming hosts arrived, setting up camp across the river, shouting "Grandpa" in unison, drones hovered overhead, and a liquor merchant offered Chen money to promote his brand on camera, hoping to cash in on the popularity to promote his products. Neighbors even began hanging gourds outside their balconies in the hope of garnering as much attention.

Though Chen declined the commercial offers, he could not stop the endless flow of people. The commotion became so overwhelming that Shen began to feel dizzy. Concerned for her health, visitor safety and the disruption to their privacy, Chen decided to bring the spectacle to an end on Sept 5.

Using a pair of long-handled scissors, he carefully cut down the seven gourds he had lovingly nurtured, while onlookers formed an unbroken wall across the river, capturing the moment on cameras and phones.

The removal of the gourds led to a sharp decline in visitors. But six days later, the gourds reappeared. Chen said he could not bear to disappoint visitors who had traveled from distant places, including from as far away as Guangdong province and Beijing.

The decision to cut down the gourds was driven by concerns about safety and privacy, while rehanging them was an act of compassion. While these actions reflect an ordinary man's struggle to balance self-protection with kindness toward others, they have sparked multiple questions and speculation among netizens.

Some wonder whether Chen was influenced by local authorities or financial gain, reflecting a general mindset that assumes every action is guided by a profit motive, leaving no room for simple goodwill.

Chen's decision to rehang the gourds was a simple gesture of kindness toward strangers, from a man who has endured personal loss. His goodwill should not be misinterpreted or exploited.

He should have the freedom to make decisions without external pressures or misinterpretation. The real issue is whether someone thrust into the spotlight due to a simple act of kindness can step away unharmed.

While online attention can bring popularity and even financial opportunities, it should not justify intrusion into someone's personal life.

The gourds are a beautiful sight, but for Chen and his wife, their home is a private space. Scenery can be shared, but their daily lives should not be disturbed, nor become a spectacle.