Which day is called Wan Maha Songkran in Thai?
The first day of Songkran, April 13, is called “Wan Maha Songkran,” when the sun is about to leave Pisces into Aries. Usually, people clean up their homes and prepare for the new year merit-making.
What does the word Songkran mean?
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year festival since the former time. It is a celebration that embraces goodwill, love, compassion. and thankfulness, using water as the means of expression. The word Songkran derives from Sanskrit meaning to move or step forward.
What is Thailand’s holiday?
Public holidays
| Date | Name | Local name |
|---|---|---|
| 1 January | New Year’s Day | วันขึ้นปีใหม่ (Wan Khuen Pi Mai) |
| Full moon, 3rd Thai lunar month (February) | Magha Puja | วันมาฆบูชา (Wan Makhabucha) |
| 6 April | Chakri Memorial Day | วันจักรี (Wan Chakkri) |
| 13–15 April | Songkran Festival | วันสงกรานต์ (Wan Songkran) |
How long is Songkran in Bangkok?
three days
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year that runs over three days of public holidays from April 13th – 15th.
What countries celebrate Songkran?
Thais are celebrating this year’s Songkran festival, also known as the Buddhist New Year. The festival, held between 13 and 15 April in Thailand, is also celebrated in Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. Songkran is often referred to as the biggest water fight in the world.
When is the date of Maha Songkran in Thailand?
The difference of 13 kammaja (23 minutes, 24 seconds) accumulates every year, causing the shift of Songkran towards the end of the calendar year. In 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900 and 2000, Maha Songkran was on 7 April 9 April, 10 April 12 and 13 April respectively.
Which is the correct name for the Songkran festival?
The correct name for this period should actually be Maha Songkran (‘great songkran’) because it coincides with the arrival of a New Year. The songkran festival is, therefore, a celebration of the New Year in accordance with the solar calendar.
Where does the name Songkran come from in Thailand?
According to the Buddhist scripture at Wat Pho, Songkran originated from the death of Kapila Brahma Thai: กบิลพรหม (lit. reddish Brahma). In the past there was a wealthy man and his heavy drinking neighbour.
Where do the Siamese celebrate Songkran in Malaysia?
Songkran is celebrated by the Malaysian Siamese community, particularly in the states of Kedah, Kelantan, Penang, Perak, Perlis and Terengganu where most Siamese are located.