Songkran 2024 in Rural Thailand
2024 was the 11th time I celebrated Songkran in rural Thailand. Songkran is known worldwide for its gigantic water fights in the larger cities of Thailand. However, Thai New Year has a much deeper meaning than simply having fun with water fights. First and foremost Thai New Year is a time for families to get together. In this day and age many people are forced to live away from home so they can work in the larger cities. Songkran is a time of travel for people to return home to be with their families. is a long holiday, and this year it was a week long series of events. A long holiday is needed for all of the festivities and spiritual events that are celebrated over Thai New Year.
Songkran started out for me this year as a happenstance that occurred on the road in front of my home. I heard the loud music and knew that something was going on, and I was anxious to try out my new FUJIFILM X100VI camera so I rushed to the front road to make a photo. The procession stopped and someone I knew asked me if I wanted to ride along. You don't have to ask me twice to ride along for a photo opportunity so I did.
Then the morning is spent for most, by relaxing in the shade provided by a large space under the temple, while the women of the village cook a variety of foods all of which are given for free to anyone that is hungry.
At 1:00 p.m. the important events of the Day start with a procession that goes around the ordination Hall three times.
A more accurate description would be that people danced around the ordination Hall. There's loud music and a very festive party atmosphere.
After the procession around the ordination hall the main reason for the day begins, which is the ceremonial blessing with the monks, which is done by pouring water over the Monk's hands.
This aspect of Thai New Year, is where the pouring of water comes from. The meaning behind it, is to give and receive blessings for the new year, and water is a symbol of purification. Obviously it doesn't hurt any that this is done in the hottest month of the year and the water is welcomed by everyone.
Day three of Songkran is the day for blessing the elders. This is usually done at local homes with family members. Since I am 73 years old and considered an elder I also take part in this aspect of Thai New Year.
The same water blessing occurs that took place at the temple, only this time it is for the elders of the family, done by family members. This is followed by a ceremonial washing of Grandpa and Grandma, complete with a hair shampoo.
So as you can see traditional Songkran is much different than the huge water fights that make the news headlines worldwide, and in my humble opinion much better, and much more meaningful.
Photos by Lee Craker were made with the FUJIFILM X100VI, photos with Lee in the image were made by family with the FUJIFILM X100f
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