Sukhothai is an ancient capital in northern Thailand, whose name translates as “the dawn of happiness”.
It is the first independent Thai kingdom, set up approximately 440km north of Bangkok in 1238.
Impressive ancient ruins dot the landscape of the historical city of Sukhothai, now recognized as a World Heritage Site.
There is an event which was started here and has since spread all over Thailand.
It is the “Loy Krathong”, known as the most beautiful festival in Thailand.
Taking place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, people gather with krathong topped with candles, incense, and flowers. They make a wish after lighting the candles and incense, and launch the krathong on the water. It is believed that if the candle stays lit, your wish will come true.
It was originally a Brahmanical festival relating to the farmers’ harvest, giving thanks to the water spirits. Eventually, it was adapted by Buddhists, who added on the idea of “washing away your sins, impurities, and misfortune from the past year.”
In the ancient city of Sukhothai, tens of thousands of small lanterns are lit, illuminating the 700-year-old Buddhist ruins in a red glow.
Under the light of the full moon, the sight of people praying can be seen until late evening: A mother holding the hand of her child, helping him put his krathong on the water, a couple praying as they light a krathong together.
It is said that this romantic festival used to be where men and women met and found love.
The candles glow softly, and the reflection of Buddhist monks praying is visible on the water surface.
People give thanks to the water spirits and wash away their sins and misfortunes. Then, they pray for peace,
just as they have done every year for 700 years.
In Asia, there are many festivals like this which are related to water.
The Thai people in particular have kept this tradition going because their lives and religion are closely linked to water.
Perhaps the Thai people’s relaxed and soft expressions, just like flowing water, are a natural reflection of this.
“Water is what keeps up alive. We must put ourselves in the hands of nature in order to live”…
Perhaps this is what the Thai people think when they celebrate this festival.
(To be continued)
by Kazuhiko Kato