Loi Krathong – The Festival of Light
On the full moon of the twelfth lunar month each year, Loi Krathong, “The Festival of Light” takes place in Thailand. This year it’s the 23rd & 24th November with the 24th being the full moon.
It is not generally known when the tradition first began. However, those in the know generally speculate that it is based on the Indian “Deepavalee” ritual of floating lights to worship the Brahmin Gods.
In Thailand it evolved from the royal rituals of the early Rattanakosin period where lanterns of various designs and exquisite natural materials were set afloat in the Chao Phraya River and waterways.
Over time the tradition spread and was widely adapted by the common folk making offerings to Mae Khongkha – the Mother of Waters (the Thai equivalent of the Hindu Goddess of Water). It expresses gratitude for the giving of life-sustaining water. Generally it is believed that the offerings are also an act of appeasement to beg clemency for man’s carelessness in polluting the waters that nourish all of life.
At dusk, as the full moon begins to rise, the krathong (the lotus-shaped receptacles decorated with fresh flowers, candles and incense sticks) are lit and set off on their journey; Loi meaning to float, so Loi Krathong means to float the krathong. In some cases, the lighting of fireworks is set off in the same spirit of worship celebrating an aerial Festival of Lights.
We have never seen this spiritual festival, but it must be quite an experience! For more information about Loi Kathong check out this website.
