-
Apr 13, 1200
13th century
Songkran started in the 13th century as a celebration of the Buddhist New Year. It started as a tradition of lightly sprinkling water on the hands of elders and Buddhist clergy to signify cleansing them for the new year. Songkran has its origins in the ancient festival of Sankranti, The word Songkran is derived from ancient Sanskrit, a language dating back thousands of years, and means to ‘step into’, ‘enter’ or ‘pass into’. -
17th century
The Thai New Year celebrations were moved to April to coincide with the traditional Thai New Year, which was celebrated in April according to the lunar calendar.
Songkran was a time for Thai people to pay respects to their elders, visit temples, and perform various spiritual and cultural rituals. -
19th century
Songkran evolved into a water festival.
The festival performs splashing water on friends, family, and strangers as a way to cleanse and purify oneself for the upcoming year therefore it is also called the water festival. It symbolizes renewal and purification as water is considered a sacred element that has the power to wash away bad luck and bring good fortune in Thailand. -
20th century
Songkran became a nationwide holiday in Thailand, with elaborate celebrations including parades, traditional dances, and water fights in the streets. -
21st century
Songkran has evolved into a more commercialized and tourist-driven event, known for its lively water fights and street parties, attracting millions of tourists from around the world who come to experience the vibrant culture, delicious food and atmosphere of the festival. -
present
In order to attract more and more tourists especially the younger generation, music festivals will be held during songkran. Inviting famous internation and local singers and rappers to preform on stage. Water fights will be held and water will splash to the audience during the performance. Modernizing the traditional festival and increase the acceptance in younger generations to celebrate the festival.