Once again, we are at the threshold of Songkran - the Water Festival.

And water being a very important aspect of life, it is no wonder that Thais,

mainly an agricultural society, hold it in such high regard. So high, in fact, that

it marks the beginning of their traditional New Year. This makes Songkran,

probably, the most joyful and fun filled occasion in Thailand.

From a foreigner's standpoint, nothing seemingly reflects the Thai people's

love for pomp and ritual than the Songkran. As a fun - loving and spiritual people,

Thais make it a point that Songkran exhibits both solemn ritual and festivity.

Being a national holiday, it is officially observed on the 13th of April, and celebrated

all over the country. Thais usually make sure that they spend this time with their

families or in their repective hometowns.

The solemn ritualistic side of Songkran can be seen in Buddhist Temples, where

the principal Buddha image is usually exhibited and respect fully sprinkled with water,

also making sands stupas in the Temple courtyards, releasing fish and birds to

receive blessings, and presenting of ferings to the monks. Houses are throughly

cleaned on the morning of the first day and young family members pour water

over the hands of elders as sign of respect.

On the other hand, the pomp side of Songkran, which is all too - familiar with

residents farangs (or expats) or frequent visitors, is as essential to the Thais

as their tradition. It has even come to be a modern tradition in itself, among

Thais and farangs. The veriety in which this executed is as diverse as the people

who celebrate them.

In more conservative places, people respectfully ask if they clab some water

on the forehead of another. However, in the opposite extreme, Pattaya has been

famous with having a whole week celebration of the Songkran.

Water cannons, buckets and water gun, are but a few weapons of choice in Pattaya,

all ready to drench anyone and everyone in water (hopefully!) in the name of (good)

clean fun. With no less than religious fervor, people locals and farangs alike seek

out passers - by and drench them out to their heart content.... nad hopefully not

getting too carried away.

However, such madness isn't for everyone and some would opt to miss out on

this....uhm...unique experience.