In April, Thailand experiences more than simply the scorching summer heat; it is the time of the Thai New Year festival, Songkran, which turns the nation into a vibrant and joyful celebration. Songkran is a celebration of the beginning of a new year that has deep historical roots. It is characterised by rituals of rebirth, homecomings, and, of course, the world-famous water fights that take place all throughout the country.
Songkran is a delightful fusion of tradition, community, and celebration, from the ritual water-pouring on Buddha statues to the high-energy parties that unite residents and tourists. Everyone is welcome at Songkran, whether they are interested in the religious meaning of the festival or just want to get wet and have a good time.
Spiritual Significance
During Songkran, Thais pay a visit to Buddhist temples and bring food to share with the monks. After that, the Buddhist statues are doused with water, a ritual known as Abhisheka in Hinduism. Doing this on the first of the year is thought to bring good fortune because it is a way to cleanse oneself of all misdeeds.
Hindu/ Indian Connection
The term “Songkran” is derived from the Sanskrit term saṃkrānti, which means “astrological passage” or “change” in English. This word is a borrowing from the Hindu spring festival “Makara Sankranti” in southern India. Traditional methods for calculating Songkran were outlined in Suriyayart, the Thai translation of the Hindu scripture Surya Siddhanta. At Makar Sankranti, as with the sidereal zodiac system, the festivities begin as the Sun moves into Aries.
Little History
Songkran was the official New Year celebration until 1888, when it was changed to a set date of 1 April. Prior to that, the New Year was officially celebrated on January 1st. The date was changed to January 1st, 1940. Still celebrated today, the traditional Thai New Year Songkran is a national holiday in Thailand. Even though Songkran actually began at 20:57 on April 13, 1989, the Thai cabinet set the dates at 12–14 April.
Origin Story
According to Thai people, Songkran originated from the birth of Kapila Brahma or Phra Phrom however there are many conflicting stories for this.
Currently
The Songkran is known for its water festival. Major streets are closed to traffic and are used as arenas for water fights. Young or old, everyone participates in this tradition by splashing water on each other and spreading joy.
How to greet in Thai
Happy Songkran’s day – Suk-San-Wan-song-Kran (สุขสันต์วันสงกรานต์)
Happy New Year – Sa-was-dee-wan-pee-mai Khrap/kha (สวัสดีวันปีใหม่ ครับ/ค่ะ)
