Songkran: The Traditional Thai New Year

Thai people celebrate Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, annually following each day of the festival from April 13 to April 15 with specific practices. On April 13, people prepare for the celebration instead of celebrating, but the Thai consider this part of festivities. In the morning, the Thai start cleaning their homes, temples, schools. Cleaning is necessary to eradicate the previous year’s bad luck (TAT Newsroom, 2021). Song Nam Phra, ritualistic ‘ablution’ of the sacred Buddha’s torso, takes place in all temples by noon (TAT Newsroom, 2021). People go to the temple to see the ceremony, return home, and continue tidying until the following day. On April 14, known as Wan Nao, the Thai routine includes preparations and recreational activities. People cook food and collect offerings for the monks in the morning but do not give them to the temple just yet (TAT Newsroom, 2021). A productive pastime is necessary to reinforce the impact of leisure later. Wearing traditional dresses or colorful shirts, Thais pay respect to elders and wash their parent’s feet with special scented water in the afternoon (TAT Newsroom, 2021). Pleased parents give their children blessings for the new year, and the tradition strengthens the bond between relatives. During the day, people release caged birds into the sky or fish into waterways (TAT Newsroom, 2021). This ritual provides good karma and makes the world a happier place. On April 15, referred to as Wan Payawan, people visit monks and participate in various celebrating practices. The day starts with the Thai going to the local temple to offer food and clothes to the Buddhist monks. Monks then pray for one’s well-being and health, and their prayer increases morale (TAT Newsroom, 2021). Thai people believe that water cleanses and brings good luck for the next year. Therefore, water is sprinkled for good fortune in the family, and water fights occur everywhere in the country up until the evening. Moreover, every large city organizes colorful parades with floral garlands, music, dance, and religious and folklore characters. That is a grand sight of people celebrating Songkran, eating, and having fun. People prepare and rest for the first two days mainly within the family, occasionally partaking in different ceremonies and traditions. The third day is the celebration day when strangers join each other on the street for joyous festivities and grand spectacles. In conclusion, Songkran is one of Thailand’s most significant and fascinating festivals.

Reference

TAT Newsroom. (2021). Thailand’s Songkran festival: Its origins, history and modern-day observance. Tourism Authority of Thailand News. Web.