Celebrating Songkran: Reconnecting with Family and Tradition
In Bangkok, Pattareeya Konwimon, 35, is finally enjoying precious family time in the Thai capital after many years of being unable to celebrate the Songkran festival, or Thai New Year. As a geotechnical engineer working in Thailand’s northeastern province of Nong Khai, Pattareya cherishes this opportunity to reconnect with her family.
Family Bonding
Pattareya believes that Songkran is the best time to spend time with her family and take her parents to visit temples. "I work in Nong Khai and hardly have time to return to Bangkok. So, during these Songkran holidays, I make it a point to spend time with my family and take my parents to visit temples," she said at the Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan (Wat Saket) temple on Sunday.
Traditions and Customs
Songkran, traditionally celebrated from April 13 to 15, is observed with various traditions, including family reunions, paying respects to elders and ancestors, and the washing of sacred Buddha images. The festival is renowned for its vibrant water-throwing activities, lively parades, and colorful displays, symbolizing the start of the Thai New Year with a spirit of joy and renewal.
UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
In 2023, Thai Songkran was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing the significance of this festival in Thai culture.
Wat Saket: A Symbol of Tradition
Siriporn Phenphon, 45, another Bangkok resident, shared that she and her family have visited Wat Saket, one of Thailand’s oldest temples, for many years, particularly during Songkran. "For my family, Songkran means a lot. It is the best time for bonding and enjoying a reunion dinner."
The First Day of Songkran
Siriporn explained that the first day of Songkran is dedicated to temple visits, prayers, and making merit. "It’s a special day for us to come together as a family and pay respects to our elders and ancestors," she said.
Conclusion
Songkran is a significant festival in Thai culture, symbolizing the start of the new year with a spirit of joy and renewal. It is a time for families to come together, pay respects to their elders and ancestors, and engage in various traditions and customs. As Pattareya and Siriporn’s experiences demonstrate, Songkran is a celebration that brings people together and fosters a sense of community and togetherness.
FAQs
Q: What is Songkran?
A: Songkran is the Thai New Year, celebrated from April 13 to 15.
Q: What are some of the traditions and customs associated with Songkran?
A: Songkran is observed with family reunions, paying respects to elders and ancestors, and the washing of sacred Buddha images.
Q: Why is Songkran important in Thai culture?
A: Songkran is a significant festival in Thai culture, symbolizing the start of the new year with a spirit of joy and renewal.
Q: Where can I watch a video about Songkran?
A: You can watch a video about Songkran on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNO0vIkpKmo.