People threw into the water zongzi (pyramid-shaped glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in reed or bamboo leaves) and eggs to divert possible fish or shrimp from attacking his body.

The result is that many rice-eating countries are detached from the price swings in global markets, according to Darren Cooper of the International Grains Council, a research body.

His love for the body goes only as far as appeasing his hunger, and that only by means of rice and simple greens.