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Krathong magical festival |
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Saturday, 03 May 2008 |
 In the province of Tak, Krathongs are made with coconut connected to each other and then thrown together on the Ping River to form a chain of lightly Krathong is celebrated during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. It is a very old tradition whose origins and meaning vary according to the beliefs and places, as well as how to celebrate.
In wood or paper, water or air
"Loy" means "to float" and "Krathong" refers to the idea of "floating containers." The Krathong is usually made from natural materials most common in each region. It occurs most often in the form of a dish made from the trunk and banana leaves decorated with flowers on which 3 sticks of incense and candles. Some also add a piece hoping to return good fortune, which makes especially the happiness of children who will go to fishing Kratong once the festivities ended. The Krathong usually in the form of a lotus in bloom, a swan, a stupa, or simply of Mount Meru. This gives rise to competition of the most beautiful boat (see box).
Nevertheless, in Tak province, for example, trays in the trunk of banana are replaced by coconut which are connected to each other and then thrown together on the Ping River to form a chain of light. As for Chiang Mai, the event is celebrated squarely in the air with giant paper lanterns that rise into the sky like balloons light.
The various meanings
Speculation about the origin of these celebrations are numerous. For some, Loy Krathong stems from a tradition called Indian "Deepavalee" during which similar lights floating accompany the spirits of gods Brahma, Vishnu and Siva. For others, it is a former cult returned to the footprint of the Buddha on the banks of the Narmada River mythical Indian, and some argue that the rite was originally intended to pay tribute to one leading disciples of the Buddha, Phra Uppakhut.
But the version seems the more shared the rest of the offering made to the goddess of waters Mae Khongkha (Ganga), in which the men are grateful to have fuelled the waterways, while asking forgiveness for themselves unclean them throughout the year.
Loy Krathong is also an opportunity for many to get rid of worries and bad fortunes that kratong is supposed to take with him. Loy Krathong is also very popular with young people for its atmosphere at once auspicieuse and romantic. It is indeed a good time for all tourtereaux make a vow (both his own and in secret) to find happiness and success in love.
Where to launch its Krathong in Bangkok and elsewhere
To sail his Krathong, water point may be the case. Some are even in their pool! However, to enjoy the magic of the event, it is better to choose a place frequented and conducive. In Bangkok, the banks of Chao Phraya River, opposite the Wat Arun is one of the most popular. There is also the basins of major parks in the city as Lumpini, Saranrom, Chatuchak, Benjakriti behind the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center or basins gardens of Chulalongkorn University. The evening Loy Krathong are generally accompanied, in the main squares, sound and light shows, fireworks and live performances. From this viewpoint, the Sukhothai Historical Park is particularly recommended. |