The name „Songkran“ comes from the Sanskrit word for „passing“ or „approaching,“ symbolizing the transition from the old year to the new one. Traditionally, Songkran was a time for family reunions, temple visits, and paying respects to elders. It’s a time to cleanse and purify, both spiritually and physically.
One of the main customs of Songkran is the throwing of water. People splash water on each other as a way to symbolize washing away the misfortunes of the past year and welcoming the new year with a fresh start. This water festival has become iconic, with locals and tourists alike taking to the streets armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses, drenching each other in a playful and spirited manner.
Another significant aspect of Songkran is the making of merit. People visit temples to make offerings, listen to sermons, and participate in traditional rituals. Many also perform acts of kindness and generosity, such as releasing animals or giving alms to monks, to accumulate merit for the new year.
Food also plays a central role in Songkran celebrations. Families come together to prepare elaborate feasts, often including traditional dishes like pad thai, som tam (papaya salad), and mango sticky rice. Street vendors set up stalls selling delicious snacks and refreshing drinks to fuel the festivities.
In recent years, Songkran has evolved into a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique traditions of Thailand’s New Year celebration. However, amidst the fun and excitement, it’s important to remember the festival’s cultural and spiritual significance, honoring its roots in Thai culture and tradition.
Vocabulary:
1. Traditional – Something that has been done for a long time and passed down through generations.
2. Festivity – A celebration or event that is joyful and involves a lot of activity.
3. Symbolize – To represent or stand for something else.
4. Transition – The process of changing from one state or condition to another.
5. Purify – To make something clean and free from impurities or dirt.
6. Misfortunes – Unfortunate events or bad luck.
7. Iconic – Widely recognized and regarded as a symbol or representation.
8. Spirited – Full of energy, enthusiasm, or determination.
9. Merit – Goodness or worthiness, often based on good deeds or actions.
10. Sermons – Speeches or talks given by religious leaders about spiritual or moral topics.
11. Generosity – Being kind and giving freely to others without expecting anything in return.
12. Accumulate – To gather or collect something over time.
13. Feasts – Large and elaborate meals, often served during celebrations or special occasions.
14. Elaborate – Detailed and complex, often involving a lot of effort or decoration.
15. Vendors – People who sell goods, usually in a market or on the street.
16. Attractions – Things that draw people’s interest or attention.
17. Vibrant – Full of life, energy, and activity.
18. Significance – The importance or meaning of something.
19. Roots – The origin or source of something, often referring to traditions or culture.
20. Cultural – Relating to the customs, beliefs, and practices of a particular society or group.
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1. What is Songkran?
a) A Chinese festival
b) A Thai New Year’s celebration
2. When does Songkran typically occur?
a) January 1st
b) December 25th
c) April 13th
3. What does the throwing of water symbolize during Songkran?
a) Washing away misfortunes
b) Good luck
c) Starting a fire
4. What is one traditional Thai dish often enjoyed during Songkran?
a) Sushi
b) Pad Thai
c) Pizza
5. What is a common activity during Songkran celebrations?
a) Eating noodles
b) Flying kites
c) Throwing water
6. What is one way people make merit during Songkran?
a) Giving gifts to friends
b) Visiting temples
c) Watching TV
7. Where do many tourists come from to experience Songkran?
a) Around the world
b) Only Thailand
c) Only China
8. What is the main purpose of Songkran celebrations?
a) To scare away ghosts
b) To welcome the Thai New Year
c) To honor ancestors
9. What role does food play in Songkran festivities?
a) None
b) A small role
c) A central role
10. What is an important aspect of Songkran in addition to water festivities?
a) Building sandcastles
b) Playing basketball
c) Making merit
11. What is released during Songkran as an act of kindness?
a) Animals
b) Lanterns
c) Balloons
12. What language does the word „Songkran“ come from?
a) Thai
b) Spanish
c) French
13. What is a common street food enjoyed during Songkran?
a) Tacos
b) Hot dogs
c) Mango sticky rice
14. What do people typically do at temples during Songkran?
a) Dance
b) Make offerings
c) Play games
15. What is the cultural significance of Songkran?
a) It’s a recent invention
b) None
c) It’s an ancient tradition