Songkran is the Thai traditional New Year which starts on April 13 every year and the celebrations last for three days. April 13 is known as Maha Songkran Day or the day to mark the end of the old year. April 14 is Wan Nao which is the middle day and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok which is when the New Year begins. Songkran means “movement” or “changing” as, 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. Thus, it is a time for cleaning houses, villages, temples and spirit houses. In the Thai tradition, the New Year begins early in the morning when faithful Thai Buddhists give alms to Buddhist monks. After that, they release caged animals, especially birds and fish. Elders and parents will be visited and respected by their children and grandchildren. The young pour scented water over their elders’ hands who in return wish them good health, happiness and prosperity. This tradition of paying respect is called “Rod Nam Dam Hua”. April 15 is known as “Family Day”. In the afternoon, Thai Buddhists sprinkle scented water on Buddha images. After that, they sprinkle perfumed water on, or throw clean, cold water over each other. Songkran is observed with excitement in the North, especially in the northern province of Chiang Mai. A lot of people from around the country will head up north to participate in the festivals organised there. A Miss Songkran Pageant will be held in most towns and villages as well as a long and beautiful parade. In Bangkok, the Buddha image “Buddhasihing” is brought out from the National Museum for people to sprinkle lustral water onto at Sanam Luang, opposite the Grand Palace. Anyone who goes out on the street is likely to get a thorough soaking. People believe that water will wash away bad luck and splashing water over friends, neighbours or anyone who passes you in the street will give them a New Year blessing.
This picture shows young people respect old people and old people give them a blessing so that they have a morale boost before going back to work in the big city again.
And at the temple we also shower the statue of the Buddha to show our respect and for good luck as well. (as shown in the picture above)
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