13-4-2024 (BANGKOK) The vibrant city of Bangkok witnessed an exuberant display of festivities as revellers took to the streets on Friday (April 12) to celebrate the traditional Thai new year, known as Songkran. Seeking respite from the scorching heat, locals and tourists engaged in a spirited water fight, drenching each other in a playful and symbolic cleansing ritual.
For 18-year-old Chavanin Kalayanamitra, Songkran holds a special place in his heart. “It has a lot of meaning to me because I could meet friends I hadn’t seen since high school or university. It’s very fun to reunite with old friends,” he shared with enthusiasm.
Symbolizing purification, reverence, and good fortune, the act of pouring water has evolved from an ancient ritual into what is now hailed as the world’s largest water fight. The festival officially lasts for three days, but the merriment often spills over, continuing beyond the designated timeframe.
Tourists flock to Bangkok to partake in the revelry, with Songkran serving as a major attraction. Flora, a 30-year-old tourist from France, expressed her delight, saying, “It’s like stepping into a completely different world. We absolutely love it.”
The iconic Khao San Road, frequented by backpackers, became the epicenter of water gun battles as people joyously soaked one another in cascades of water. Chloe, a 25-year-old French tourist, shared her excitement about being in Thailand for the festival. “We just arrived, and it’s incredible to experience this vibrant celebration,” she exclaimed.
While Songkran is predominantly celebrated in Thailand, it also holds significance in neighbouring countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. The timing of the festival coincides with the hottest period of the year, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
