For all of you who are not enlightened of this glorious holiday, let me fill you in.
Songkran Festival,
also known as the water festival, is Thailands most celebrated festival. It starts April 13 and lasts between 3 and 10 days, depending on where you are in Thailand. The word Songkran is from the Sanskrit meaning the beginning of a new Solar Year. Everyone gets soaking wet and since it is the hottest season of the year, the custom is quite refreshing. It is also supported by the religious belief that anything old and useless must be thrown away or it will bring bad luck to the owner.
During the afternoon of the 13th, Buddha images are bathed as part of the ceremony. Young people pour scented water into the hands of elders and parents as a mark of respect while seeking the blessing of the older people.
...That answers a lot of questions to those of you who were confused about your clothes being bathed in weird colors and scents haha.
Most importantly, Thai people celebrate this holiday to have a good time which I certainly noticed curing my time in Chiangmai while taking part in Songkran festivites. Needless to say, I had to spend quite a bit of money doing laundry throughout the week, it was totally worth it :]
I am always opening my arms to the cultural aspects of this country and with that being said, Sonkgran Festival takes the cake. My favorite holiday hands down
Introducing Songkran Festival, Thai New Year 2554:
To see more of my photographs from Chiangmai and Songkran Festival visit my album on Flickr.
No comments:
Post a Comment