Songkran, the traditional
Thai New Year, starts on April 13 every year and lasts for three days.
During Songkran, people originally from the rural areas who are working
in the city usually return home to celebrate the festival.
Songkran is a Thai word which
means "move" or "change place" as it is the day when the sun changes its
position in the zodiac. It is also known as the "Water Festival"
as people believe that water will wash away bad luck.
During Songkran, family members
gather together to pay respect to their elderly relatives. They
pour scented water onto the hands of their parents and grandparents.
They also give gifts to their elderly relatives.
People also gather together to
clean up houses, temples, and parks in their communities. They
also visit the temples and make offerings to the monks and listen to
sermons.
In the afternoon, people will go
out on the streets and joyfully splash water on each other. So, if
you visit Thailand during Songkran, be prepared to get wet!
Check your comprehension:
1. Which country
celebrates the Songkran Festival?
2. How many days does Songkran last?
3. What's another name for Songkran?
4. What does the Thai word "Songkran" mean?
5. What do Thai people believe water can do?
6. What do people do to pay respect to their elderly relatives?
7. What do they do at the temples?
8. Why would you get wet if you visited Thailand during Songkran?
