As April begins, Thailand gears up for one of its liveliest and most joyful festivals: Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year. This annual event, often referred to as the "water festival," marks the beginning of the Thai lunar calendar year and is deeply rooted in Thai culture, history, and spirituality. After three years without a water festival due to Corona, it was finally possible for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a jubilant atmosphere of water fights, religious rituals, and community gatherings.
However, Songkran is not a modern invention like Halloween to boost tourism and gastronomy.
At its core, Songkran represents renewal, purification and new beginnings. The word "Songkran" comes from the Sanskrit word "Samkranti," which means "astrological passage" or "transformation." It symbolizes the transition from one astrological phase to another. It opens up new opportunities and brings blessings for the coming year.
Songkran embodies a variety of profound meanings and symbolizes different aspects of Thai life and culture.
New beginnings and renewal : Songkran not only marks the beginning of the Thai New Year, but also represents a new beginning on a personal and spiritual level. It is a time to break free from past mistakes and obstacles and make a fresh start.
Purification and blessings : Water splashing during Songkran is not only for refreshment and fun, but also symbolizes purification and blessings. The water is considered a purifying agent that drives away negative energies and bad influences and brings good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
Community and solidarity : Songkran brings families, friends and neighbours together to celebrate and share joy. It strengthens social bonds and promotes a sense of community togetherness.
Tradition and culture : During Songkran, many traditional rituals and customs that have been passed down for generations are practiced. These traditions reflect Thailand's rich cultural history and connect people to their past and roots.
Spirituality and Faith : For many Thai people, Songkran also has deep spiritual meaning. It is a time to connect with the divine, express gratitude, and ask for blessings for health, happiness, and prosperity.
Overall, Songkran is a festival that celebrates the diversity and richness of Thai culture. It unites people of all ages and backgrounds in a spirit of joy, respect and harmony, leaving lasting memories of happiness and togetherness.
Traditionally, Songkran in Thailand is a time when families come together, pay respects to their elders, visit temples and make offerings. The whole country is on the move and it feels like you are in an anthill. In addition to the traveling Thais, tourists from near and far are of course welcomed to the extravagant festivities. Water pistols are sold out long in advance - even though Thailand is currently battling the worst spring drought in 50 years. Water is already being rationed in the cities - but that hasn't stopped anyone from splashing water around like there's no tomorrow. You really don't have to understand it - Welcome to Thailand!
The number of fatalities and injuries on the roads during these days, which has remained largely constant for many years, is also a cause for further head-scratching. Excessive partying, binge drinking, recreational drug use and lots of people on the roads drive the accident statistics to astronomical heights without major countermeasures. During this year's "Seven Days of Death" alone, 264 people died in road traffic and 2,208 people were injured. Reason enough for many to either stay at home on these days or only travel by taxi and public transport. Despite the government's grandly announced measures, including increased police presence, alcohol controls, public awareness campaigns and increased prosecution of traffic violations, the number of traffic accidents during the festival remains worryingly high.
We ourselves have stayed out of the hustle and bustle so far. But when an agreed lunch with my (Horst writes) Rollergang colleagues and some friends from the German-speaking morning pint ended with wet clothes, I let myself get carried away. I have to admit - it's fun to just be a child and laugh almost non-stop for a few hours. With all our tasks and obligations here, that has to have its place - and I really enjoyed it :-)
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