It is believed that Loy Krathong, or ‘the festival of light,’ originated in the ancient city of Sukhothai, located about five hours north of Bangkok. It is not necessarily a religious holiday, but you will see many Thais praying to the water goddess, Mae Khongkha, as they send their decorated ‘boats’ down the river. The festival takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, thus the exact date of the festival changes every year.
Many Thais will give thanks to the water goddess for the fortune of having water while others will ask for forgiveness for using too much or contaminating it. Thais participating in the festival let go of whatever their misfortunes are and let the water carry them downstream and away for good. Burning incense and lighted candles cover the tops of the krathongs, which are the circular objects, usually made of banana leaves and flowers, floating down the river. Loy means ‘to float.
According to legend, the festival was originated by Nang Noppamas, consort to a king. Beauty pageants in her honour remain a traditional part of Loy Krathong celebrations all over the country.
Keeping the festive spirits alive and follow the tradition, Tourism Authority of Thailand along with Royal Thai Embassy and Radisson Blu Plaza Airport Hotel, celebrated the Thai festival of Loy Krathong at Radisson Blu Delhi Airport hotel on 31 st October 2020. It was a serene and breathtaking evening with floating candles, flowers and krathongs displayed all over the venue showcasing Thai festivals & traditions.
Around a hundred guests including diplomats, corporates, media and members of the travel fraternity were invited to celebrate the magical festival of lights where candle lit krathongs twinkled on the water, making it truly a sight to behold.
The evening was inaugurated by Thai cultural performances followed by the traditional Loy Krathong procession that was led by Nang Noppamas who was carried on a palanquin to the pool and she invited the guests to release the candle and incense lit krathongs into the water thereby paying respect to the water goddess.
Guests at the event learnt the art of traditional Krathong making and decoration which they floated into the water. The event also included demonstrations of a popular Thai snack and dessert which truly immersed guests in the Loy Krathong experience.
Mr Vachirachai Sirisumpan, Director Tourism Authority of Thailand, New Delhi said “In these tough times we are very grateful to be able to celebrate the Loy Krathong festival in New Delhi in an intimate gathering and pay our respects to Thai festivities, as we pray for better times ahead and the well-being of everyone. I hope this event gave the guests a sneak peek into Thai traditions, art & culture and a taste of delicious Thai food by the famous Neung Roi restaurant.
Some of the most vibrant and lively cities to visit during the Loy Krathong festival include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Sukhothai.
About Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) – promoter of Thailand’s tourism worldwide, is
Partnering to showcase the best Thailand has to offer to India, and to project the luxurious and indulgent side of Thailand, which makes it a must visit destination.
