Magical Loi Krathong festival: Thailand shines in a sea of lights
Thousands of candles in the water: Thailand celebrated the traditional festival of lights Loi Krathong, one of the country's most magical festivals. On lakes, canals, rivers and beaches, countless Thai believers and tourists alike launched small rafts made of banana plants or environmentally friendly expanded polystyrene into the water on Monday. The mostly lotus-shaped "krathongs" are decorated with colorful flowers, incense sticks and candles. The mighty Chao Phraya River and the famous Lumphini Park in Bangkok are also transformed into a sea of lights.
The festival always takes place on the day of the full moon in the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar. Loi Krathong means something like "floating a raft". The festival goes back to the tradition of thanking the water goddess Mae Phra Khongkha for a rich harvest at the end of the rainy season. The offerings are also said to float away sins and worries. Couples also use them to emphasize their togetherness.
In Chiang Mai in the north, sky lanterns are also traditionally released into the air. The origins of the festival probably lie in India. In Thailand, the tradition began in the former capital Sukhothai, and today Loi Krathong is celebrated throughout the country.
After launching their krathongs into the Chao Phraya River, many Thai individuals take the opportunity to fix any loose incense sticks or candles, ensuring a colorful display of light. As the festival continues, the colorful krathongs drift peacefully on the water, casting a reflection of their vibrant hues onto the water's surface.
Source: www.dpa.com
