Added attraction to Avurudu activities

The Songkran Festival and Thai Market, held in Colombo, on Sunday, 07th April, turned out to an event full of excitement. The Thai community, in Sri Lankan, made their presence felt in a big way, and they were all there enjoying the activities that were laid out for them.

For the Sri Lankans, it was a novel happening…shopping around for Thai products, seeing Thai cultural dancers in action, as well as the water pouring ceremony where the Thai community sprinkled scented water on the statue of the Buddha, and also on the hands of the revered elderly to ask for their blessings,

Paitoon Mahapannaporn, Ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka, and other Embassy officials, joined in the celebrations held at Siam Nivasa, the premises of the Royal Thai Embassy in Colombo.

In Thailand, Songkran refers to the sun’s annual passing into the Aries constellation, the first sign of the Zodiac, which marks the traditional start of the New Year.

Occurring in mid-April (13-15 April) after the rice harvest, it is a time when people reunite with their families and pay their respects to older adults, ancestors and sacred Buddha images.

Paitoon Mahapannap orn, Ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka, sprinkling scented water on the statue of the Buddha

Pouring water is a significant act during Songkran, symbolizing cleansing, reverence and good fortune. Other activities include bathing important Buddha images, splashing water on family and friends, folk plays, games, music and feasting.

The tradition is passed on through participation in the festivities. Parents transmit the tradition to their children orally through regular social and family interactions.

Educational institutes, government agencies, the media and Thai astrologers also play an important role in preserving, promoting and transmitting the astrological knowledge and wisdom related to Songkran.

Songkran promotes community cooperation, unity and forgiveness and it is viewed as a time to symbolically wash away misfortunes, pray for prosperity for the coming year, reunite with family members, and honour ancestors and older adults. Furthermore, by emphasizing the importance of older adults and of family, Songkran helps to combat loneliness and social isolation.

Perhaps next year this festival will be held on a larger scale, in Colombo, where Sri Lankans can experience the real meaning of Songkran,

In the meanwhile, the Songkran Festival, the cherished tradition in Thailand, has been officially recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an intangible cultural heritage.

A taste of Thai goodies

Checking out the Thai Market