#and also Songkran day

[lonelynight13]

Kung Lao's birthday 14/04

His Lore in MKATUS

Kung Lao hailed from humble beginnings, born into a struggling family where he stood as the eldest among his two siblings. The burden of their financial hardships grew heavier with the arrival of his youngest brother. To alleviate their plight, Kung Lao was sent to train as a novice at the Shaolin Temple, where he forged a lifelong bond with Liu Kang, who became both a cherished friend and a brother to him. His formative years were spent in rigorous training until a pivotal event at 16 years old altered his path, leading him to discover his signature weapon, the razor hat, and vow never to assume the role of a teacher. As a Shaolin master, he crossed paths with Haruka/Lin, on her deathbed which makes him reluctantly accept her as his first student, a journey fraught with grappling his past and embracing his new role as mentor. However, fate dealt him a cruel hand as he met his demise during the interrealm tournament, only to be resurrected as a revenant under dark sorcery for many agonizing years. Trapped in a body he didn't recognize, he wrestled with disillusionment and despair until the unexpected intervention of the 2 gods sacrifice restored him to the realm of the living. Despite his miraculous revival, he found himself adrift in Outworld, wandering aimlessly until his nephew's intervention rescued him, allowing him to finally embrace the remainder of his days.

[dragonflute]

happy tdov 👯 im jay im a nonbinary gay man (he/they, he/him if ur cis) and i draw weeeeeee

[alienpossession]

Ethnographic Research: Part 2 (Songkran)

It's the biggest holiday of the year for Thai people. Songkran, or Thai's New Year, usually make Thailand filled to the brim with tourist from all over the globe that wanted to experience the festivities. It's crowded, it's loud and it's wet, the whole country especially Bangkok seemingly have no concept of sleeping during the duration of Songkran.

The parade last the whole day, and the party last even longer, creating this illusion of endless party as all of the people seemingly rejoiced the New Year.

So, it's only normal for the Mother Ship to capture that brimming energy from its scanner and deciced that two of the researcher should land in that spot since human seemingly packed the place, especially the very lively Bangkok

The 2 Xarthans should've landed close to each other for easier coordination after the takeover, but due to the technical issues to the pod, it diverted one of them from the planned landing spot.

So while this one comfortably slipped itself into the body of this fit hunk named Gun while he just finished dipping in the swimming pool and getting ready for a full day of partying, the other one have to struggle through the crowded city as it tries to make its way to the designated meeting spot

The less luckier Xarthan decided that the only way he can go undetected with this insane crowd of people is to blend in. It found itself landed near this giant plastic drum filled with water in the backyard of a random house so it dipped itself into it and started to break itself down into microparticles. The splash from the 8 feet tall alien entering the water drum must have alerted the human inside the house as he quickly checked on the drum to find nothing out of the extraordinary. Then, more men swarmed the water drum and revealed the gun-like items they bring with themselves. Not long after, the Xarthan found itself split into 5 water guns belonged to 5 different men, and if the visuals they watched in the Mother Ship turned out to be true, this is actually a perfect way for it to get into more human

---

While the Xarthan that landed on its designated spot already blended in and partied his ass out with everyone in the middle of the city, the adventure just started for the separated Xarthan, now also split into 5 different water gun. Aside from the glimpse it spotted earlier when those men peered into the water drum, it basically have no idea how the men looked like. But it didn't take long for it to finally started its spread as it found itself suddenly having multiple vision. The water shooting has started, and everytime a spritz of the infected water landed in these bodies, that body turned into a vessel right after the water particles slipped into the body either through the navel, the slit of their cock or asshole or even right through the orifices in the human face.

The takeover were quick and almost seamless, the human rarely felt anything as they considered it to be as simple as water trickling into their body. But when that sharp jab of takeover sealed their fate, they usually flinched but that meant it was too late for them to stop the process. The main Xarthan constantly emitted this transmission to keep all the new vessels in check, and they quickly converge in-between themselves so they are not scattered across the crowd. They would abandon whatever original plan of their vessel or the companion that they went together with, or even more sinisterly, grabbed their companion so their companion could also be shot by the infected water gun. What makes the festivity turned out to be a potent way to find good vessel other than the raucous water spray is the fact that for a lot of the time, people shoot water to others that they find attractive or likable, so no wonder that in just below 30 mins, the separated Xarthan found itself ended up controlling multiple different attractive bodies, and not just limited to local people as some of it ended up in tourists bodies too as Bangkok usually flooded with thousands of tourist during peak season like this.

When the sun eventually sets, the newly-minted vessels arrived altogether in front of the main party gate for the festivities. It can sense that the fellow Xarthan is already inside the party ground, so all of the different bodies started to swarm the gate to get themselves inside. Some of the vessels already have the tickets to enter the party ground, but some other unlucky ones decided to take matter into their own hands, either jumping into another host or even takeover security details or the staffers of the festival.

With more than 30+ bodies under control, it should've been an easy search. But the crowd, nearing 40,000 and counting, made it quite a challenging work as the vessels tend to get distracted by random groping and playful kisses landed to them. Eventually, the security details managed to find Gun as their bigger bodies plus the uniform managed to convince the partygoers to give them way. Upon eye contact, Gun playfully winked at the three securities that eyed him, knowing full well its his brothers split particles inside the securities body. Gun then used his mind to telepathically subdued one of the security to join him for some playful fun while the rest of the vessels gathered. It's easy to do so since the split particles definitely weaker in comparison to them staying intact as a singular entity. The subdued security then give Gun a lift, practically letting Gun piggybacked over his broad shoulders. Then, the excited Gun emitted the signal so all the vessels from his brothers can gather around and they can have the best of fun all night long. He's about to be surprised on how many bodies his brother acquired, but for now, he just want to have fun and ride on the energy his vessel exudes

[sxtja090]

Happy Songkran Day!!

just Liu taking the Earthrealm champions to celebrate Songkran C:(nearly didnt finish these in time for songkran)

at first i wasn't gonna post these but i just couldnt resist.. Well then happy songkran day to everyone and hny to my fellow thais :D

after this i never want to draw water again..

random doodles based on my convo w/ my friend under the cut

context: from my experience, those that are considered "cute" will get a lot of clay smeared on them.(bet all of em will get covered in it tho..) Also dont shoot water into someones eyes it HURTS LIKE A BITCH SO BAD

based on:

+extra :

based on:

//thank you Naoki for suggesting these hehe

Lastly: สุขสันต์วันสงกรานต์ และ วันขึ้นปีใหม่ไทย 13/4/67.

time for me to go and get drunk on songkran :)

[fyeahthaidramas]

Welcome to the second of fyeahthaidramas' Christmas events!!

GMMTV Advent Challenge

The Event is open to all, and will run from December 1st - 24th, with a themed challenge every day.

Rules etc:

GMMTV shows only please

BLs, GLs, lakorns, and everything between are eligible

All forms of fan content are welcome

Complete the challenge, or just choose your favourite prompts

Content can be as seasonal or not as you want to make it

No ship, show, character, or cast bashing!

Please reblog this post to help spread the word! 💗

Don't forget to tag your creations with #GMMTVadvent so that other people can find and enjoy them.

Info post on the first event 12 Days of Thai Drama Appreciation here.

Challenges below the cut:

Also tagging some people under the cut to help spread the word:

Challenges / Prompts:

Favourite Couple(s)

Most Attractive

Favourite Show(s)

"Cupid's Last Wish" A pair you would love to see team up to play romantic leads, or a one-off pairing you'd love to see become a branded pair.

Favourite Male Character

Best Hair / Favourite Hairstyles

Favourite Female Character

Fic Rec When canon simply isn't canoning the way we want, many of us turn to fanfic. Fix-it, AU, Missing Scenes, Future, our talented authors have got it covered. Whether you have that one fic you read again and again, an author whose posting instantly brightens your day, or a cast of characters you want to see in every setting and situation, let's shout about them today.

Favourite Locations

Favourite Cast Performances

Favourite Character Friendships

Happy 27th Birthday Jamie Juthapich 🎂🥳 Something a little different today; Whether you loved her as "Prof" Ploy in Ploy's Yearbook or loved to hate her as Palana in P.S. I Hate You, Jamie has graced our screens with many memorable performances, so let's all show our appreciation for her!

Favourite Cast Friendships The GMM Fam really is just that - a family, but many of the wonderful friendships within often get overshadowed by the branded pairs, so let's take some time to appreciate the many other heartwarming interactions from this delightful extended family 💛

Music videos Love them or hate them, the cast recordings are a big part of GMMTV shows. I hope at least we can all agree that the music videos have given us some wonderful shots of our favourite faces and pairings, so let's celebrate them!

Favourite Male Cast Member(s)

Favourite Female Cast Member(s)

Mentors, Parents, and Parental Figures, oh my!

Favourite Outfits

Favourite Siblings

Favourite Happy Scenes

Favourite Branded Pairing

Favourite Sad Scenes The sad moments are often what makes a story, and they're often some of our cast's best work, so let's take a moment to highlight them...

Favourite Hugs ...and now hugs to make us all feel better 😊

Happy Christmas to all... Through the years our favourite characters have celebrated Christmas, New Years, Songkran, birthdays, graduations, and more. Pick your favourite parties and let's join in 🥳 And to all, a good night!

💕🎄🎨

Thank you in advance if you reblog ❤️💚✨

@boyslovesource

@gawincaskey

@girlslovenet

@girlsloveupdates

@gunsatthaphan

@khaotunq

@moonkhao

@sherrymagic

@sollucets

@thaidrama

@thebroccolination

@usertoxicyaoi

[howcanibe-homophobic]

Translate:

🐈: Hi, handsome. Got any sweetheart yet?

🐍: *Nom nom, yummy in my tummy.*

🐈: I'm still young and virgin tho, single ready to mingl– *pew!*

It's Songkran day in my country soooo i just wanna randomly draw this

Lil doodles *sorry for the quality:((*

*also ignore the lil drawing on my art pls, that's my friend's*

[lu-dao-writes]

— 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐧

𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨 When you think you can’t celebrate your new years, your new friends make it possible.

𝙒𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜(𝙨) Nothing much, Unnamed/Oracle reader, and reader is kinda implied to have Asian heritage, also pure fluff.

𝘼/𝙉 Happy Thai New Years! I’m so excited to post this because I finally got to write something for Songkran! The last few times I was unable to because I had nothing good to write, but this year I finally do! I do hope you guys enjoy this because this means a whole lot to me! I’ve never been able to celebrate Songkran in Thailand, but one day I hope to!🥺🙏🏼🇹🇭💦

You situate yourself in a lonely booth at the Wet Wick, watching as Leander entertains his gaggle of Bloodhounds and serves unique to questionable beverages.

Ais and Vere are chatting away at one end of the bar, lost in their own game, and Kuras is on the opposite side of the bar with an untouched drink that Leander thrusted into his hand; the doctor just smiling courteously as usual while watching everyone around him.

You begin to wonder if Mhin was here when their lithe form sits in the empty space in front of you, the couch squealing slightly from sudden weight.

Their lips are twisted in a fussy frown. “Gods it’s stuffy in here.”

“Nice to see you too,” you tease.

Mhin gives you a pointed look but their lips quirk slightly. “You look sad,” they suddenly remark, face falling back to neutrality. “Why’s that? Did some drunkard bother you?”

“No, no, it’s not that,” you assure them quickly. You then twirl your glass of water, the slowly dissolving ice cubes clinking together and the sweat of the water wetting your gloved hands.

“Where I came from, today would mark as our new years. There’d be a water festival going on and the temple would be quite busy. The water symbolizes washing away last years bad choices and karma. I… Hate that I won’t be participating this year,” you confess with a longing smile.

Mhin’s face softens, but they look away, unsure of what to say.

“You don’t have to say anything,” you assure with a light laugh. “I just wanted to be truthful. I’ll find some way to celebrate Songkran. Maybe if I’m lucky it’ll rain before it’s over.”

Mhin nods before muttering softly, “Well… Happy Songkran, (Y/N).”

You give them a warm smile, feeling beyond touched, and Mhin blushes.

“Thanks, Mhin. It really means a lot to hear that.”

They nod before clearing their throat. “Tell me more about it?”

“Well, almost everyone participated by either throwing water at each other or going to the temples. It’s just a fun event where everyone is collectively happy, unburdened for only just a while. Washing away the negativity and being with loved ones, and sharing a good meal too,” you list off wistfully.

“Gods, I miss a lot of things from home.”

You further go on to explain the foods you once used to eat, and how at the temple you used to live at, people would pour water on the monks hands and receive blessings in return. It felt nice to see their hopeful and happy spirits.

“I’m gonna go head up now before I get overwhelmed. Thanks for listening, Mhin,” you thank, getting a soft nod and mumbles from them.

You bid the others good night and tuck yourself into bed, doing your best to not long for what you once had, and not look at your wretched arms.

There was only one more day left of Songkran and each passing day you’ve become more and more depressed and moody, occasionally pulling away from the other for some space and so that you don’t ruin their moods.

You’re suddenly awoken just as you finally had managed to force yourself to sleep. Someone is lightly shaking you.

“(Y/N)…? (Y/N), wake up.”

“Leander…? What is it?” your grumble.

“Come on and get dressed. Quickly!” he urges, excitement blooming in his voice.

He pulls you up from the bed and you bite back annoyance, going behind a changing screen to dress more appropriately.

Once dressed you let Leander grab ahold of your gloved hand and pull you downstairs. You blink as the light stings your eyes and your aware that the other Bloodhounds are still in the Wet Wick, but they’re not as rowdy.

Leander has you stand at the entrance and you slowly realize it’s raining.

You blink and look at him. “I’m not following.. What’s happening…?”

Leander laughs and brings your frame into his. “Oh come on Sunshine! It’s raining! Look, Mhin told us about how around this time it’s your new years where you’re from, and me and the others planned a night of celebration for you! And we’re lucky it actually started raining!”

Your eyes widen as it sinks into your brain. Your heart races with hope and happiness. “You..?”

Leander chuckles, smiling brightly. “Vere and myself got musicians, and Ais, Mhin, and Kuras helped to get ingredients to make a few dishes you enjoyed!”

You cover your face and twist your lips to stop the trembling.

The familiar smells of food from home now hit your nose and you look back inside to see the other Bloodhounds watching with anticipating smiles and looks, and the gang at the bar, all looking pleased.

“Shit you guys, I’m gonna fucking cry!” you laugh out a sob, pinching you eyes to stop the tears.

Leander walks you to the bar and lets your take a seat. There’s curry, and a noodle dish you loved to eat, and you’re practically salivating, having skipped dinner to go force yourself to bed.

“How’d you get some of these ingredients? I haven’t been able to find any oriental stalls here!”

“We have our ways, Sparrow,” Ais winks before sneaking a glance at Kuras who looks just as pleased.

“We even managed to make that simple dessert you spoke of.”

You sweat a little, wondering if Kuras had a hand at cooking anything by himself. You look at Ais who gives you a subtle gesture of assurance.

You love Kuras, but that man was not skilled at cooking, bless him.

You relax with a sigh, thanking them all again.

Food is served to you and others and the entertainment starts up, the band skillfully playing their instruments, and even Leander joins in with a tambourine, dancing on a table.

You made sure to not eat too much, which was smart because Vere is the first to yank you into a dance.

You could hardly focus on dancing when the fox is so mesmerizing with his fluid and seductive movements, his eyes never leaving yours and that coy, yet infuriating smirk on his face.

Just as you’re getting into your groove, you’re yanked away by Mhin, separated from Vere.

Thankfully before Vere could kick up a fuss (with violence), Ais pacifies him by pulling him into an equally seductive dance.

Now that you’re with Mhin, they now seem clueless on what to do, the poor thing blushing brightly and holding your arm.

But Kuras remedies their awkwardness by initiating a dance. Soon your passed between them both, feeling exhilarated and still a little shy.

The rain outside becomes a bit louder and you pause. When you glance at them both, they understand your need.

Kuras helps guide you through the dancing bodies of others, Mhin glued at your back, hand gripping your shirt tightly.

Once at then entrance of the Wet Wick, you step out into the downpour, feeling a wave of nostalgia as you become drenched.

The music is still loud and you glance back at Kuras and Mhin.

Mhin looks a little guilty as they decide to stay put and you’re not upset.

Kuras shrugs and steps out to join you, the both of you continuing your dance, although this time it’s far more sillier as you hold hands and swinging each other around and then trying to do a waltz, you squealing when he dips you effortlessly.

“Hey, there you are!” It’s Leander and he happily joins in the rain, stealing you from Kuras and twirling you around, you laughing happily.

And shortly after, Ais arrives, and you’re once more passed between your dance partners.

Then Leander starts a water fight, using his magic to splash you and Ais, the both of you doing your best to retaliate with your feet.

Kuras is protected from any splashes, likely using his wings, and Vere and Mhin remain at the entrance, safe from the rain and threatening Ais and Leander to not even think about getting them wet.

“Cowards!” Leander mocks playfully before getting tripped by Ais, and you clutch your stomach as you all but die with laughter before eventually trying to get back at Ais for his attack on Leander.

In the end, you both end up on the ground and in their hold, still giggling and overwhelmed into happy tears.

“Thanks so much, you guys! This means the fucking world to me, and I won’t ever forget it!” your promise, flashing them a wonderful and bright smile.

And each one of them gives you an adoring smile in return, making you feel all warm and fuzzy.

“Happy Songkran, (Y/N)!”

[twig-tea]

Cherry Magic Thailand Exceeded My Wildest Dreams

This series really surpassed all expectations I had for it. I've already yelled a few weeks ago about how this series righted years-long wrongs both with TayNew and with the Japanese adaptation, and encouraged everyone to watch this show. I'm so happy that the finale didn't let me down, ending its run as a near-perfect series!

The series as a whole did so many things right and only really stumbled slightly on one of the mid-series filler episodes that didn't affect the arc of the main characters or the story overall, so it was forgivable. Everything else in this series is a joy.

Cherry Magic Thailand has perfect character arcs, with relationships that all champion communication all the way through. There's a reason why Kurosawa and Adachi experienced the penultimate episode breakup in the Japanese adaptation but Karan and Achi did not; Karan and Achi worked so hard for this relationship all the way through this series, and that makes them feel so solid that a breakup would not have felt believable or true to them.

I loved how quickly and fully Karan embraced Achi's magic, and used it to be as embarrassing as possible about his feelings. This worked so well in the Thai version; For a man who is not super worried about homophobia, and is not as worried about being seen as less than perfect (the way the Japanese version's Kurosawa was), but who instead is mostly certain that he's Too Much, finding out that his every thought has been heard by the man he loves and that he fell in love with Karan because of those thoughts must have been the hugest relief. Karan's energy after the confession scene is consistently: I can't believe I'm lucky enough to have this.

And that's why it's so critical that Achi already has a ring in his pocket in this finale when Karan proposes. There are of course the reasons why this works as an ending to Achi's arc; The story starts in a way that feels like Karan is leagues ahead of Achi; Achi struggles with feelings of inferiority at the beginning of the series, just like he did in the Japanese version.

I already wrote in a response to @lurkingshan's ep 11 post about how Achi's arc on this was so good, he managed to gain enough self-confidence to build a workplace friend group, move forward in his career, and proactively move forward his relationship. For Achi, proposing is a perfect end to his arc of coming into himself.

But Karan was already self-actualized. If anything, his fear in this relationship has been that Achi would never love him the way Karan loves Achi. Before they ever get together, Karan organizes his day at the office to Achi's schedule, making sure to reduce minor inconveniences and discomforts without ever expecting to be noticed, never mind reciprocated. Karan lies to Achi all the time about how far out of his way he went to do things for Achi (from buying drinks to braving Songkran crowds to bring him medicine). When they first start dating Karan over-plans their first date, and Achi has to remind him that small moments are also good. During the dreaded episode 8 confrontation with their boss, Karan takes the responsibility of their relationship on himself alone. When they were preparing for Achi to be leaving for a month, Achi straight out told Karan he was worried about Karan's ability to handle the separation. He hung out outside Achi's house secretly, and designed a new krathong for them to release at Loy Krathong, but was willing to let go of their Loy Krathong date at the first sign Achi might have to skip it.

This is the first time Achi really steps up in their relationship, but it's still following Karan's lead--he knew celebrating Loy Krathong was important to Karan, so he prepared a surprise for a different day so that they could still celebrate together. While Achi is on his work secondment, they both prioritize staying in touch, but Karan takes a surprise trip out to see Achi before the month is over. And they have sex, and so Achi can no longer hear Karan's thoughts.

This means Karan is able to keep secrets from him again, like a proposal. And so Karan buys a ring, retaining what he thinks is his position as the one who does the work to move their relationship forward. But Achi surprises him by asking him to meet his parents as soon as he comes back from his secondment. And then he overhears Achi tell Karan's mother that he is making sure Karan isn't the only one putting effort into their relationship.

And then Karan is so overwhelmed with happiness that he can't hold back and asks Achi to marry him, and because he's Karan he has the ring already and is carrying it with him. And Achi tells him yes.

And this is the critical bit: Achi then tells Karan that he was also planning to propose to Karan, and proves it by pulling out his own ring. This is physical evidence that Karan is not alone with the intensity of his feelings; that Achi is doing what he told Karan's mother he would, and is putting effort into their relationship himself outside of steer from Karan; that Karan is allowed to love as hard as he does and he will be met halfway by a partner who is a partner in every sense of the word. When Karan says to Achi "I really love you, you know?" And Achi says "I do", it's not just about Achi knowing the depth of Karan's feelings intellectually, but about him knowing the depth of Karan's feelings by reciprocating them. It's about Karan knowing that Achi won't just coast on Karan's love, but will make sure Karan is being taken care of too.

[The part that breaks my heart about that is that Achi's kindness is the thing that attracted Karan to him in the first place; but Karan is so used to not being taken care of that he never expected Achi to turn his caretaking skills on Karan, even after they started dating. Quietly devastating, nbd]

Let's talk about happier parts of this last episode I noticed instead. The parallels in this last episode are so stacked on top of one another that I find it almost overwhelming; We have the two Karan/Achi bench scenes in CMT, from when they become a couple and when they get engaged; there's the proposals between Karan and Achi and between Jinta and Min, and how complete opposites they are (in the contrast between each individually having planned rings and having them on their person even for a mutually unplanned proposal, and how that contrasts to using a pen to draw on an engagement ring because neither of them had prepared at all); there's the use of pens as a proposal tool in Jinta and Min's story and in the Japanese adaptation's Kurosawa and Adachi's story; the perfect reverse parallel between the heat levels of the couples in the Japanese adaptation and the Thai adaptation--I love that Thailand flipped this rather than keeping them both moving faster, it makes the universe feel more balanced somehow--and (as @liyazaki illustrated in her post) that final fake-out parallel that ends the Thai and Japanese versions.

Love the decision to honour the Japanese adaptation while keeping to the manga on which it's based by giving Pai a story that has a clear aroace read while building the foundation for a start to a relationship with Rock that is believable and one I can root for.

I can't talk about Jinta, Min, Rock, and Pai without talking about how much I love these ride-or-die friends that Karan and Achi have acquired. The way Pai drops everything to get Achi to the airport; the way Rock kidnaps Karan without knowing why; the way Jinta and Achi talk to one another using their powers; the way Jinta looks at Achi and Karan when they have dinner together. All of these things warm my heart so much. The way Duj is the most intense busybody in the office but it comes from a place of caring.

And I cannot end a post about this show without talking about just how funny it is. Karan's internal scream, Jinta being able to hear the cat's internal voice, Pai's shipping constantly being misinterpreted by Achi and Rock, these jokes landed every time.

This post got out of hand, again. TL;DR I LOVED THIS SHOW. I loved the humour, the friendships, the relationships, the character arcs, and the scenery. I loved seeing Tay and New absolutely slay on my screen again, I loved seeing another adaptation of this stellar source material, and I loved watching something so well put together week to week. It's been such a good run of shows!

[happypotato48]

Only Boo! EP 3 Unhinged Tangent Thoughts

After one week break because of Songkran we're finally back with our blessed cute BL. this week episode had everything, cringe flirting lines, moo randomly started a music video for no reason, best boy pining, and a love confession after only 3 episodes.

Awwwww! he so cute! i'm loving this "welp, i guess i'm in love" kind of energy. no drama no angst, head empty, only kang!

Moo! it's 3-4 AM in probably a busy wet market. the aunties don't have time or energy for your bullshits right now! also that's a Lemon basil not a Sweet basil but i get it the sub needed to make the pun work in english.

This baby is so cringe he gonna make all the dad jokes enjoyers proud.

Baby i love you but you need to stop bothering random uncles and aunties with your shenanigans. this whole sequence is very cute though and i liked the song.

You did nothing wrong!. Ta waen just needs to be more responsible for his own dream and to not expecting way too much from other people.

You all are cutes! stop it, its too much, my heart gonna burt from how bright and pink this show made me feel.

Yes kang! you tell him. look some men are worth the afford but i really loved this message about how it's good to not giving everything for love and lose focus on other things. cause like, dicks come and go but educations are forever baby!

Girl you should've smacks that little hoe. some boys deserve it, that how we prevent them from growing to be stupid man children.

I don't care how beautiful this place is nobody can make me go into that water.

Oh yes. the gay headwashing, the most romantic bl thing ever in my opinion. this and the princess pickup are my two favorite guilty pleasures in BLs.

Argh!! boy scout jump scare. SO....... i kinda have a stupid boy scout uniform related trauma, that i will not be elaborate >.>

This is why you should've kill those mosquitoes!! kid these days and their lack of knowledge about dengue fever, smh.

A confession after a gay sponge bath 😏 this boy had moves.

This show continued to be is very very kawaii and brainless. i'm now both dread and excite for the angsts and dramas that will befall our adrokable protagonists in the future.

[thaifanfests]

Throughout history, the dates that count as the "new year" have changed a couple of times due to regime changes and political decisions within Thailand. Today, the official new year is on January 1st, like the rest of the world. The 1st of January is called ปีใหม่ (“pi mai”), ปี is “year,” and ใหม่ is “new.”

Alongside this is Songkran-สงกรานต์. Songkran is considered the Thai New Year that takes place in mid-April. The date of Songkran used to be calculated each year by a royal astrologer, but now, for practical reasons, it is officially on April 13–15 every year. Taking place during a long weekend, Songkran is the time of year when people emphasize the importance of honoring their ancestors and taking a break to go home and spend time with their families. Offices and shops close to accommodate the holiday and travel plans, which can be the whole weekend or extend to the entire week.

Like many Thai traditions, Songkran has a lot of Brahmanism influence and many aspects that involve Buddhism. Buddhism is the most prominent religion in Thailand, with more than 90% of Thai people being Buddhist. Therefore, many significant acts during Songkran symbolize cleansing, unity, and good fortune for the upcoming new year. Bathing Buddha images and making merits with family members is traditionally done, and other fun activities, such as water fights, feasting, games, and folk dance, are also part of the celebration (UNESCO, TheNationThailand).

Currently, to boost tourism in Thailand, the Thai government has extended Songkran celebrations in various ways. Places such as Silom Road and Khao San Road are spotlighted as destinations to attract international travel, all while encompassing the usual Thai traditions of water fights, street food, and music (SindhornMidtown). Many places and institutions have begun their countdown to Songkran!

Here, at SongkranFest, we will be counting down the days to Songkran by sharing information about Songkran! This information will help our participants become more knowledgeable about the Thai New Year, as well as help them center Thai culture in their fanworks.

🌸 What's SongkranFest2024? 🌸 Guidelines 🌸 Prompts 🌸 Discord & Carrd 🌸

[nattaphum]

Translation:

On the Songkran’s Day, i was waiting for MileApo in front of the mall right at the place where their van was parked. Someone told that they saw Po alone in the van, also my friend and I only saw Po in the van but Po was laughing and joking with another person but no one saw who the other person was. When the van door was opened we went like aow! pmile also got out of the van. I mean, where did pmile sit before? lying on his lap? that we didnt get to see him ahah

PLEASE THIS IS SO CUTE

[bengiyo]

Middleman's Love Ep 5 Stray Thoughts

Last week, the boys went to Songkran. Jade felt bad for Mai and went along with him. Tong got told off by King and went to hang out with Gus, but Gus was hurt by Tong being especially mean to him. Jade had an incredibly reasonable reaction to misunderstanding Mai's request to eat together every day, and then they helped Jade's sister deal with a pervert. Mai confessed to Jade, but he totally misunderstood it again and thought Mai was aiming for a better evaluation. Jade's fudanshi eyes are getting in the way.

Oh good. We're picking up with Mai making sure Jade knows he's serious.

Mai fell in love with Jade when he saw him save that puppy? I'm about it.

Finally! A romantic lead responds to someone who doesn't think they're someone people fall in love with by naming the specific traits they enjoy!

Yes, Mai, go for the obvious seme moves. It's the only way to get through to a fudanshi.

I'm actually enjoying the smartwatch bit.

I do like when we have a dutiful son struggling under the weight of parental expectations.

Gus holding his ground and not easily reconciling with Tong is something that can be so personal.

NGERN ANUPART IS IN THIS SHOW. HOW WAS I NOT TOLD THIS??

Oh my god. This is giving Domundi queer life after school special, but I like the modeling of parental behavior in this scene. Everyone is surprised at first, but rallies to Mai's said and expresses curiosity about Jade while also reiterating their unconditional support and love. Good job, BL.

I love King and Uea being patient with Jade even as they tease him.

Jade is such a mess that Mai's attempts at flirtation consistently go awry.

This company put a decent amount of money into this sports day event. Everyone got outfits and everything.

Well well well. Jade is now jealous of his perception of the potential between Mai and Gus.

Is that the actor who played Valentine in Love Area in this flashback?? It is! Does he break Jade's poor little heart??

He does it in the next scene? Damn!

Oh, this is mean. You can break up with someone without telling them there's something fundamentally wrong with them. This guy suck.

Still, I don't mind the heavy handed flashback here if we're going to see Jade struggle with his own jealousy.

Damn, King! You can't just take that man's egg!!

There goes that jealousy again.

They have played multiple rounds and no one has changed this score board.

Oh, Gus, you are adorable and I love you.

I really love Uea, and love seeing him have fun.

Cannot believe we're getting a montage of Mandee variety content as a plot. Can't believe how amused I am by it.

Yes, Uea, please chide King for his lack of tact, even if the direct approach is probably correct with Jade.

Yes, let Uea hold the award. It's what he deserves.

Oh lord we're ending on a misunderstanding.

I'm so invested in Jade feeling like he deserves love, holy shit. When did this show sneak up on me?

[recentadultburnout]

So I wrote a PatPran fic for the Songkran Fest 2024 event. It's pretty dialogue-heavy😅

Ao3

Part of yours

Summary:

After so many years of sneaking around, Pat and Pran are finally accepted by each other's families.

Or

Pat joins in with Pran's family during songkran.

"It's going to be Songkran soon."

At night Pat says. His arms hang loosely around his lover's torso.

"So what?"

Pran ask in return, still paid more attention to the headphone reviews than the conversion.

"You want to go out?"

He pushes Pat's hand away a little, making it easier for him to grab a pencil for his note. With the discount, this one will be in the budget. It would be worth it if the reviews were true.

"Nah, not really..."

And now Pat's head is in his lap. Demand attention.

"It's just... Ugh! I don't even know! After grandpa passed, we don't even Rodnam properly anymore. When it was Songkran, we just laid around the house together. Order something to eat, maybe. It's been what? Since high school?"

"But ink has been there these past few years, you know? Apparently, Pa also went to Rodnam with her parents too." Pat complain.

"So?"

"Ink lives hours away. Our houses are right next to each other! Don't you see how ridiculous this is?!"

"You actually want to Rodnam my parents?"

That was quite a surprise. Pran didn't think Pat even wanted to be in the same room with them before, and now he wants to Rodnam them? Go sit there at their feet, ask for their blessing, and act like a sweet obedience child. Pat? With his parents?

"Eh... maybe?"

Pat looked pretty hesitant with his answer, but after a moment of silence, he did not change it.

"We can try."

"Really?"

"So you just want to vent but not actually do it?"

"No! I want to do it! Really! For real!"

"Yeah, yeah. It's not like they don't know we live together."

"They know?"

"I'm pretty sure they know. No one has said anything yet, but... I don't know. They are not stupid, you know. And lately, we didn't even try to hide."

"I don't think my mom is going to flip just because I asked if you could come pay respect to her. Maybe she will flip if I tell her I'm going to pay respect to yours. But I don't think she will ask, so I will probably just not mention it and skip that conversation."

"I will have you know, she has come quite far."

Pat made a face.

"I hope that's true."

"That's final, then. We're going to be at my grandmother's on the 14th, and Uncle Pok's family will probably be there. Aunt Pann too. I'm not bringing you with me that day this year. Let's start with just my parents first. From 12 to 16, other than 14, you can pick any day."

"Kay"

.

He is the one who tells his boyfriend that his mom will be fine with him coming in on Songkran, 'intruding' on family time, but will she really?

Pran wants to say she definitely will. But still, he was scared.

If he decides not to go through with it, Pat will understand. He might be teasing him for a bit for chicken out of something he suggested himself, but he will understand.

He can still scrub the plan.

Nah.

What is he? A coward? Definitely NOT.

.

"My mom agreed."

She acts like she knows and has been fine with their relationship all along. Pran is not sure who she tries to deceive—herself or him.

It seems pointless.

Well, this attitude is better than before, for sure, and he is not about to question it.

"I never think I'm going to live to see the day your mom accepts me as her son-in-law."

Pat pretends to swoon.

"What son-in-law? I have no husband."

Pran retaliate. The word 'yet' nearly got out without thinking.

"One day, you will."

Is it bad that he got a butterfly from that? Just a little, he swears.

"Let the bill actually pass first, then we can talk."

"Awww, I know you want me."

"Don't be stupid."

Pran laughs, pushing Pat away.

"What about your dad?"

Pat made a face.

"He didn't say anything. My mom says she is happy you want to join us, and my dad keeps his quiet—no complaints, no weird noise of disapproval, nothing, just quiet, so yeah, all is well."

.

"Did you know my dad never joined my mom's family on Songkran before they married?"

"Don't your parents marry less than a year after they met?"

"You are no fun."

"You love me."

"Yeah, I love you. You little joy killer."

.

"Pat, why does your Nam Ob come in a plastic bottle?"

"What's wrong with it?"

"Where do you even find Nam Ob that comes in a plastic bottle? I swear it's only come in a glass bottle. And what brand is this? It smells weird."

"It's not! It from 7–11. It literally sits there in front of the drink shelf in 7-11. You just dropped by there this evening. How come you don't see it?"

"You buy Nam Ob at 7-11? Wow, just wow."

If he sees Nam Ob at 7-11, he probably buys it there too instead of going to the other shop just to buy one thing every year, but Pat didn't need to know that.

.

"Why can't we just pour the Nam Ob straight from the bottle into their hands?"

"Pat, I swear."

"What? What's wrong with that? Korn has done it too!"

"Yeah, and Korn is the exact same type as my mom."

"Next, you're going to suggest we use that plastic water bowl you got as a package deal with Nam Ob to catch the water during the time we Rodnam my parents."

"It sure would be a whole lot easier to clean compared to that delicate, unpractical little glass tray with pedestal you brought. THAT gives me a scare of my life every moment I have to hold it. The plastic bowl will not."

"Why glass, by the way? If you want to go for traditional, shouldn't it be the gold or silver one? Or maybe Benjarong? Do we use Benjarong for this?"

"My mom likes it. She is the one who brought a set that was used during my dad's Songkran every year. I think there is another set for her parents too, but I was too young back then, so I don't remember much."

"Did you pick what you will bring as a gift yet?"

"Is the tea box set good enough? It's a premium tea from Doi Mae Salong. Super fine plucking too. Your mom loves tea, right?"

"Shouldn't it be some type of cloth?"

"Umm, why?"

Pran sigh.

"If I wronged you in any way before, please forgive me."

If you ask, Pat will tell you that he is 100% sure he was the one who was wronged by them, not the other way around. Sadly, this is what he asked for, so he will have to suck it up.

Having to sit through an awkward meal and an even more awkward family ritual where he clearly out of place isn't that enjoyable, but the fantasy of having the main door open for him is too great for anything to weigh him down.

At least it's going to be done soon.

"I wish you good health. Anything you think of, let it become true. Let your life and career be more and more prosperous."

The blessings are as generic as they can be. Nothing is meaningful like what Pran gets.

Pat is just glad he gets any blessings at all.

The brief touch at the top of his head feels surprisingly nice. Better than he thinks it will be. And with that, the ceremony is done.

Now Pat can pretend to be a good child who wants to help tidy everything up in earnest and escape the scenes for a while. He is grateful for the fact that after so many years of sneaking around, he finally gets to be an invited guess, but he is also in urgent need of alone time away from their eyes.

If Pran can come with him for a bit, that would be great, but at the moment, it seems like the most Pran could do is distract his parents while Pat flees.

.

Pran is still with his dad when Dissaya approaches him at the front of the house, where he is putting all their belongings in his car.

Due to the lack of topics he can think of, Pat just started thanking Pran's mom again for today. It's a little too uneasy, but that's pretty much all he does all day.

Her acknowledgement is practically permission for him to marry her son, for all he cares. Never think he will ever see this day, really.

She sighs and breathes in deeply. Her eyes make Pat paranoid. Pran's beloved mother will never be Pat's favorite person.

"Pran is my son. He will always be my precious little boy. I didn't approve of him being so close with you before because I didn't want him to make the same mistake as me. I will admit that I judged you too harshly and too soon. You make Pran happy, have been for quite some time now. If Pran wants you to be part of our family, then yes, I can look past the other things and accept you."

This little speech of hers makes Pat want to roll his eyes.

Madam Dissaya sure is pretentious.

But contrary to what Pran may think, he does practice self-restraint. So, of course, he thanks her again.

Today is a success.

"Since they now officially know about us, I can openly go into the house wherever, right?"

Pat slides one hand onto Pran's knee before asking teasingly. His boyfriend seems to be in a very good mood, since he let it sit there without starting to lecture him on the topic of the dangers of carelessness while driving.

"Don't test my mom's patience too much."

Pran scolds him, but there is clearly mirth in his voice.

"You mom say I make you happy~"

"You do"

Those two words sound so loving. Pat can help but melt a little.

"She says she accepts me as a part of the family."

He brags further. This time, Pran was actually surprised.

"What? Really? Word by word, or?"

"Word-by-word"

His love reaction makes him feel all puff up. Like that cute little bird he saw on the timeline.

"Is my mom proposing to you for me?"

Pran laugh. His hand is playing with the hand on his knee now.

"It's a yes, by the way."

"I didn't ask yet, you dorks."

"No need. My beloved mother-in-law already asked for you."

"I should be a good son and marry who she picks then."

"Yeah, you better."

"That bill—should we try to win the title of the first couple to register after it passes?"

"Sure, I want to be the first in everything, don't you know?" Pat jokes.

If this is Pran's hint for him to propose, he wouldn't be opposed to it. More than ready, actually.

Suddenly, there is something cold sitting on his finger.

"If you don't like this one, the shop allows us to return it and pick up a new one in a 30-day time frame. There will be some fee, of course."

Pat nearly crashed the car.

[feverinfeveroutfic]

i use my sex as a weapon and the drinks are for free, i’m as cold as ice on the floor of the desert, i burn with the blood of water to find the sea, i use my wounded sex as a weapon and the drinks are for free

Victorialand __ a region in eastern Antarctica which fronts the western side of the Ross Sea and the Ross Ice Shelf, extending southward from 70°30’S to 78°00’S, and westward from the Ross Sea to the edge of the Antarctic Plateau. It was discovered by Captain James Clark Ross in January 1841 and named after Queen Victoria.

In 1981, lichens found at Victoria Land attracted the attention of NASA because lichens may give clues about where to look for the existence of extraterrestrial life on Mars or elsewhere. Dr. George Denton, a glaciologist at the University of New Hampshire, looked for microorganisms on Mount Lister, one of the highest in Antarctica; it has the same kind of sandstone in which lichens grow.

2. Victorialand is the fourth studio album by Scottish alternative rock band Cocteau Twins, released by 4AD in 1986. Working without bassist Simon Raymonde, vocalist Elizabeth Fraser and guitarist/producer Robin Guthrie opted for a subtler sound on the album. […]

The album title refers to the part of Antarctica known as Victoria Land, after Queen Victoria (and forming the British claim to the continent, currently dormant under international treaty). Some of the track titles were borrowed from passages on the Arctic and Antarctic in David Attenborough's The Living Planet, A Portrait of the Earth, the accompanying book to his 1984 BBC nature documentary series The Living Planet; an example is "Throughout the dark months of April and May, the birds display to one another and finally mate" on page 54.

the fics i’ve penned so far with the actual victorialand collection are anonymous so i’ll leave the links out until further notice 😉

the title refers to tequila sunrise and Tijuana sunset as well as “Tijuana bible” because at this point in time, you need to have brains and balls to do erotic fic.

you must donate exactly one (1) fuck to me for every 500 words i write. two fucks = 1000 words, three fucks = 1500 words, so on so forth. i have a tendency to get wordy with my erotic writing so a 10k beastie is a whopping 20 fucks given. no need to give up your anonymity if you like! there’s no dodgy behavior here so i’ll not only respect your privacy but i promise you, my hand on my grandparents’ ashes, there won’t be any potentially dirty money going around making the fbi give you the side eye as time goes on. money’s tight, anyways, go spend it on flour or tissues.

anything goes with me, but since this is kinktober we’re talking, i should tell you that i’m not comfortable with anything pregnancy/breeding kink related, anything daddy kink-related, or anything having to do with virginity. i am also completely bored with standard penetration. i like it weird, much to everyone’s chagrin.

i’m currently on hiatus/summer vacation on main and i’m working on my other wips right now, but i’ll be off from vacay the day after labor day, september 3rd, 2024. kinktober 2024 fics won’t be dropping until 9pm pacific time on september 30th, so mark your calendars! i have my own prompts and i’m going to leave them as a little surprise for spooky season.

also: september 29th is alex’s birthday. Rosh Hashanah this year is on october 2nd at sunset. the 16th is the start date of Sukkoth. the 11th is Yom Kippur. who knows, i might pour out a little extra shot of whiskey instead of tequila for him. make a really gorgeous, really sexy jewish libra boy a nice manhattan 🍹

fic titles:

”Treacle”

”And You Will Know Me”

”Cactus Jack’s”

”Cardamom Kisses”

”Bluebonnets”

”Wandering, Wandering”

”Hai-Bar”

”Espresso”

”Songkran Drought”

”Tierra Del Fuego”

”Jack of Hearts”

”Areias do Tempo”

”Red”

“Lily Munster Has Got Nothin’ On You”

”Ugly Truth”

”’Til Tel Aviv”

“Sandstone”

”Playa La Ropa”

”Bastards and Boozehounds”

“Pulmonaria”

”Prayer Hands”

”Spiderwebs on the Heart”

“Olives”

”Don the Beachcomber”

”Lady Godiva’s House”

“Devil’s Tea Time”

”Ten Miles High”

”Amorsolo”

“Lilac Treehouse”

”Painted Roses”

”Lunatic Kibbitz”

shabbat shalom, by the way ✡️

[pchuaymee]

Happy Songkrant day in 2024!

Hi and happy Sonkrant day or Thai traditional new year in 2024. Today, I will tell about Songkrant day or Thai traditional new year, or as known as water festival in Thailand. And I will mention to how different about Holi festival or Color festival in India, let's be enjoy it!

In every year of Songkran festival, in Thai myth that said, "The after Thamabhal Kumara (Thai: ธรรมบาลกุมาร) won Lord Kabilbhrama (Thai: ท้าวกบิลพรหม) by gave an answer his question, Lord Kabilbhrama told to his all 7 of daughters that 'If I did behead myself, you have to carry my head on tray and walk in loop parade on Meru Mountain (Thai: เขาพระสุเมรุ) in 7 times and take my head back to heaven.' When he said, he did behead his head and all 7 daughters do follow his order. They will do it in each of year by angels who are called, "Miss Songkrant (Thai: นางสงกรานต์)", they are daughters of Lord Kabilbhrama and angels of days in week." (You can read full Songkrant's story on this post)

And in the year, Miss Songkrant of year is "Miss Mahothorn Devi (Thai: นางมโหธรเทวี)" She is daughter of Lord Kabilbhrama and she is which one of 7 angels of days, her day is Saturday. Her appear is wearing black spinel bracelet, and water hyacinth on beside her ear. She is holding chakram and trident, her vehicle is peacock. And her favorite food is hog deer.

For someone who confused about Songkrant festival in Thailand and Holi festival in India though Thailand got Songkran festival by Holi in India, but they are different in my opinions here:

Name and story. (You can read about both full stories on Holi post and Songkrant post)

"Holi" which word from name of "Holika" devil, she is younger sister of the demon who name is "Hiranyakashipu". He is her brother, and he is father of "Prahlada" who is his son. But she is dead by burn in bonfire that Hiranyakashipu lied to his son for killed him that it is worship to Lord Vishnu. And also, it is celebrating to love of Krishna and Radha too. But "Songkrant" which word from Sanskrit, it is meaning to "Moving." or "Passing." Thus, it is meaning “Moving of the sun on any one zodiac, it can any sign.” In Thailand, they did use it meaning as “The sun’s date when moving on Aries in only April.”. Songkrant's story said that Thamabhal Kumara who is son of rich family, he is a clever person, and he can speak with animal. One day, Lord Kabilbhrama asks him within 7 days, if he cannot reply to him, he will kill him by behead his head. But if he can reply to him, he will does behead by himself. But Thamabhal Kumara cannot give an answer for 6 days ago, finally, he lays down and heard answer form eagles are talking on top of palm. So, he can reply to Lord Kabilbhrama and he won him, Lord Kabilbhrama orders his daughters and does behead himself. His daughters carry his head with parade in every year.

Time to celebrating.

Songkrant festival has officially dates for celebrating on 13-15 April in every year, but in year, it has declared expand time to celebrating on 12-16 April. Because UNESCO announced that Songkrant festival in lists as Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on 6 December in 2023. For Holi festival, I'm not sure when they will celebrate on date. Because I am usually see celebrating around in March. However, they are both get from Lunar calendar too.

How to do in the festival.

They are both Songkran festival as known as splash water and Holi is splashing color powder by herbs, but Songkrant, many people to do merit with monks in Buddhism Temple, stay with their family, take a bath Budda image by water or scented water in their house or accommodation, and splash water to other for fun. For Holi festival, before celebrating by splashing with color powder, they will do ritual is "Holika Dahan" by performing rituals in front of the bonfire for memorial Holika. It is significant winter is ending and spring is coming.

This is my opinions about Holi festival and Songkrant festival, however, you can find about them by yourself. If you are interesting.

And in the last, I wish to everyone to be happy and enjoying while stay safe too.

See y'all!

[prapasara]

Songkran History

Songkran History

History of Songkran Festival [ENG Ver.]

Thai New Year or Songkran (Thai: เทศกาลสงกรานต์, pronounced [tʰêːt.sā.kāːn sǒŋ.krāːn]) is the Thai New Year's national holiday. Songkran is on 13 April every year, but the holiday period extends from 14 to 15 April. In 2018 the Thai cabinet extended the festival nationwide to seven days, 9–16 April, to enable citizens to travel home for the holiday.  In 2019, the holiday was observed 9–16 April as 13 April fell on a Saturday.  The word "Songkran" comes from the Sanskrit word saṃkrānti,  literally "astrological passage", meaning transformation or change. It coincides with the rising of Aries on the astrological chart  and with the New Year of many calendars of Southeast and South Asia, in keeping with the Buddhist and Hindu Calendar. The New Year takes place at around the same time as the new year celebrations of many regions of South Asia like China (Dai people of Yunnan Province), India, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

In Thailand, New Year is now officially celebrated 1 January. Songkran was the official New Year until 1888, when it was switched to a fixed date of 1 April. Then in 1940, this date was shifted to 1 January. The traditional Thai New Year Songkran was transformed into a national holiday.  Celebrations are famous for the public water fights framed as ritual cleansing. This had become quite popular among Thai and foreigners.

Meaning

Songkran is a term derived from Sanskrit संक्रान्ति saṅkrānti meaning 'to move' or 'movement'. It derives from the movement of the sun from one position to another in the zodiac. According to its literal meaning in Sanskrit, a Songkran occurs every month. However, the period that Thai people refer to as Songkran happens when the sun moves from Pisces to Aries in the zodiac. The correct name for this period should actually be Maha Songkran ('great Songkran) because it coincides with the arrival of a New Year. The Songkran festival is, therefore, a celebration of the New Year in accordance with the solar calendar. The celebration covers a period of three days: 13 April is regarded as Maha Songkran, the day that the sun moves into Aries on the zodiac or the last day of the old year. The next day, 14 April is called Wan Nao, the transitional day between the old and the new years, and 15 April is called Wan Thaloeng Sok (Thai: วันเถลิงศก 'to begin a new era or year'), New Year's day itself.

Songkran Water Festival (Chainese Version)

Songkran Water Festival (Russian Version)

Songkran water Festival (Malay Version)

Songkran Water Festival (Korean Version)

Songkran Water Festival (Japanese Version)

Songkran Water Festival (German Version)

Songkran Water Festival (French Version)

Discover Amazing Stories | History of Songkran Festival [ENG Ver.]

Songkran : The journey from ancient water festival to UNESCO cultural heritage

UNESCO announced its decision from Botswana on Wednesday afternoon, Thai time, while events to mark the new honour will take place in Bangkok on Thursday.

Songkran is celebrated from April 13 to 15 each year to mark the traditional Thai New Year. The festival is known for its water-splashing traditions, which symbolise cleansing and purification. However, Songkran is also a time for paying respect to elders, giving alms to monks, and enjoying traditional Thai food and music.

Next year, the Pheu Thai-led government plans to stretch celebrations throughout the whole of April to promote the festival as Thailand’s soft power.

Songkran has a colourful past, which some scholars believe is rooted in an ancient Hindu festival marking the harvest season and the arrival of the new year.

This festival, called Makara Sankranti, celebrated the sun's entrance into the water sign of Aquarius, marking a new astrological period.

The water element, significant in both Hinduism and Buddhism, played a central role in rituals like making sacrifices to deities and the symbolic washing away of sins.

The festival was adopted by the Khmer Empire, which ruled parts of present-day Thailand, around the 11th century.

According to the traditional Thai calendar, the first new moon day of the fifth month is regarded as New Year’s Day. It normally falls on April 13.

Thais regarded Songkran as New Year's Day until 1889, when King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) switched the date to April 1. In 1941, the first day of the year was moved to January 1 by Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram’s government, to match the Western Gregorian Calendar. The Thai traditional New Year switched back to April 13, to be celebrated with a three-day Songkran holiday.

Under the Khmer empire, people bathed under the sun as they believed it helped cleanse the soul of bad karma and freed the spirits of dead ancestors to return to their homeland. This belief was apparently later attributed to the water element in Songkran celebrations.

As Theravada Buddhism flourished in Thailand, Songkran took on new dimensions.

The focus shifted towards merit-making, with people offering food and prayers to monks at temples.

This tradition, called "tam bun", remains an essential part of traditional New Year celebrations today.

During the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350-1767), Songkran became an elaborate royal ceremony.

The king led processions, offered symbolic gifts to Buddha statues, and participated in the "Washing of the Buddha" ritual. No water splashing took place in those days.

The washing ritual, where people pour water over Buddha images to purge impurities, is still practised widely.

Millions who study or work outside their home provinces grab the opportunity of the three-day holiday to travel home to their families. April 14 is also called Family Day. The government often extends the holiday period by one or two days, creating a long weekend to promote tourism. But the exodus of people, coupled with partying, also leads to a spike in road accidents each year.

Water splashing takes centre stage at Songkran these days, with water guns in all shapes and sizes filling the shelves in shops.

The roots of this tradition are a mystery, though. Culture scholar Sujit Wongthet believes the water fights were encouraged and adopted in modern times to promote tourism.

He notes that a poem about Songkran written during the reign of King Rama III makes no mention of water splashing.

Some scholars believe that water splashing began after King Chulalongkorn began celebrating Thai New Year in 1989.

Today, Songkran is a vibrant celebration of tradition, family, and community whose significance has now earned UNESCO recognition.

People visit temples, offer alms, sprinkle water on their elders to show respect, and engage in joyous water battles symbolising cleansing and renewal.

The gentler side of the festival sees people anointing the hands of their parents, grandparents and seniors with scented water to seek their blessing for the new year.

Many families, especially those in the Northeast, make merit for deceased relatives or ancestors.

Local authorities and shopping malls set up spaces for the public to pour scented water on Buddha images to seek blessing.

Some temples invite worshippers to carry sand into their grounds for future building construction. Many Buddhists believe the practice brings prosperity, hoping that money pours into their pockets to match the amount of sand they carry.

Another traditional New Year activity is the releasing of captive animals. Worshippers buy fish and caged birds to free on Songkran Day, hoping that this act of compassion will wipe away their bad luck.

Songkran's journey from ancient to modern times reflects Thailand's history and culture, weaving together ancient customs, religious beliefs, and a zest for life. The festival is testament to the enduring power of tradition and the joy of celebrating new beginnings And as world intangible heritage, it is here to stay.

The history of Songkran – all you need to know about Thai New Year

What is Songkran?

Songkran is the largest and most famous festival in Thailand and marks the start of Thai New Year. For younger people it is perhaps best known for its large-scale water fights (or at least it was until the pandemic) but is also known for its traditional water blessing ceremonies. An important event in the Buddhist calendar, Thais will also use the Songkran holidays as an opportunity to return home and spend time with their families.

When is Songkran?

Originally, the Songkran festival’s date was determined by astronomy, but now, the official date, Songkran takes place is April 13-15. However, depending on the province, celebrations can continue for a week, sometimes longer. Pre-COVID, the Songkran celebrations in places such as Pattaya and Chiang Mai can often take place for up to seven days and longer.

What are the origins of Songkran?

The word Songkran is from a Sanskrit word that means passing or moving and is a metaphor for relocating the zodiac imprint or entering the New Year. Songkran was originally Thailand’s New Year’s Day, and signified the start of the Thai calendar. Between 1888 and 1940, Songkran and New Year’s Day in Thailand was celebrated on April 1 but was later changed to April 13-15, when January 1 became synchronized across the world as New Year’s Day.

Where else is Songkran celebrated?

Other than in Thailand, Songkran is celebrated in Laos, Cambodia, Burma, the Tai ethnic minority of Vietnam, and in China’s Yunnan province as well as in Sri Lanka and other eastern Indian countries. The Songkran festival is culturally rooted in India’s Holi festival. The Holi festival uses a splash of color instead and is celebrated in March.

How is Songkran celebrated in Thailand?

Water is a central element to Songkran and traditionally people would sprinkle water on one another as a way to cool down during the peak of the Thai summer season. Today, that has escalated somewhat to large scale water throwing celebrations where people use buckets and water pistols to soak anyone within reach. Appreciation of family and elders is also an important part of Songkran. More traditionally, people will mix clean water, fresh flowers, or garlands to pour over the hands of their parents, grandparents or other elderly family members or neighbors.

What are some traditional activities that Thai people do on Songkran?

With COVID-19 preventative measures putting a temporary halt to water throwing, people in Thailand will be opting for more traditional celebrations this Songkran, such as:

Making merit : Many Thai people will visit a temple during Songkran to make merit and pay their respects to people who have passed away. This type of merit-making is frequently planned ahead of time by bringing food to the temple pavilion to offer to the monks.

Sand pagoda work : After making merit, some people may build sand pagodas at their local temples. The building of pagodas is a religious Thai tradition that highlights teamwork among residents who work together to build the pagodas.

Releasing fish and birds : People will release fish and birds at their local temple as a form of making merit. Releasing the animals from the confines of a cage or giving them freedom is meant to signify a cleansing of the sins or a means of eliminating misfortune to bring happiness and comfort.

Pouring water on an adult or elderly person : This is a mark of respect for adults such as parents, teachers and other respected people. Water is poured on the hands of the person who will then bless the individual who is pouring the water.

Bathing the Buddha : Bathing images or statues of Buddha either at home or at a temple. This is typically performed at the end of the merit making ceremony.

House cleaning: The biggest cleaning day of the year, Songkran is when Thai people clean, sweep, and mop to get rid of bad items from their houses. The cleaning symbolizes ridding the home of any terrible things that have occurred during the previous year in readiness for better things for the year ahead.

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