Songkran festival of Thailand recognised UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage | World

UNESCO on December 6 officially designated the Thai festival of Songkran as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. (Photo: thethaiger.com)

Bangkok (VNA) – The Songkran festival of Thailand has been
formally recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

The official announcement was made at
the Intergovernmental Committee meeting for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage
in Botswana on December 6.

According to Prime Minister Srettha
Thavisin, Songkran is a tradition that has been
inherited by Thai people for generations, reflecting their gratitude to
ancestors and embodying the spirit of unity.

Songkran is the
traditional Thai New Year celebrated nationwide on April 13-15 each year.
Activities include offering alms to monks, cultural performances and
water-splashing activities.

Songkran promotes community
cooperation, unity and forgiveness. It is viewed as a time to symbolically wash
away misfortunes, pray for prosperity for the coming year, reunite with family
members, and honour ancestors and older adults, UNESCO said in a statement.

By emphasising the importance of older
adults and of family, Songkran helps to combat loneliness and social isolation,
it said.

Thais were invited to participate in
various activities to mark the listing in Bangkok on December 7.

Prime Minister Srettha said that the
government is ready to welcome tourists from all over the world to participate
and experience the Songkran festival./.