The Songkran Festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. It coincide with the New Year of many calendar of south and Southeast Asia. Of all the feast and festivals in thailand, which are many, the songkran festival is the most striking, for it is widely observed not only in this country but also in Burma, Cambodia and Lao state.
Songkran has traditionally been celebrated as the New Year for many centuries, and is believed to have been adapted from Indian Festival. It is now observed nationwide, even in the far south. However, the most famous Songkran celebrations are still in the northern city of Chiang mai, where it continues for six day and even longer, It has also become a party for foreigner and an additional reason for many to visit Thailand for immersion in another culture.
songkran means "movement" or "changing" since according to Thai astrology, the sun will move into a new sign of the Zodiac on this day. Songkran is also called the "Water festival". Water is believed to flow and wash away all bad omens during this time.
In the Thai tradition, the New year begins early in the morning when faithful Thai buddhist give alms to budhist monks. After that they release caged animals, especially bird and fish. Elder and parent will be visited and respect by their children and grandchildren. The young pour scented water over their elder's hands, they in return, wish them good health, happiness and prosperity.
This tradition of paying is called "Rod Nam Dum Hua"
This tradition of paying is called "Rod Nam Dum Hua"
