via various sources: Thailand’s vibrant Songkran Festival, marking the traditional Thai New Year, has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Celebrated from April 13-15 annually, Songkran is deeply rooted in Hindu, Buddhist, and ancient Thai traditions and similar observances are held in neighbouring Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. The festival, known for its iconic water-splashing activities, symbolizes cleansing and renewal, and involves paying respect to elders, offering alms to monks, and enjoying traditional Thai music and food. This recognition, the fourth for Thai cultural heritage following Khon, Nuad Thai, and Nora, highlights the festival’s significance in promoting community cooperation, unity, and cultural diversity.
The Songkran festival has been formally recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage event 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 Wednesday.
Source: Songkran wins Unesco recognition
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