Loy Krathong Festival

In celebration of independence, life, and beautiful nature, Thailand is a country that loves festivals. One of the most amazing occasions held annually in Thailand is the Loy Krathong Festival. Legend tells us that about 700 years ago, the daughter of a Brahmin priest by the name of Nang Nophamas created a magnificent float with flowers, garland, and beautiful color. The float was then showed to the current ruler of the southern kingdom of Sukhothai and so impressed was the king by both the float and Nang’s beauty that he ordered the float to be placed in the river where it could gently flow down the water.

As word got out about this unique way of courting Nang, soon other suitors began creating magnificent floats, also pushing them down the river but in their case, with people on them. While no one is sure just how accurate this legend is, this is the belief of the Thai people. However, another story about the Brahmin priest involves something similar but in this case, the floating vessels, which were all beautifully decorated, were a part of a ceremony. To honor this same legend, today the people of India have a celebration called the Festival of Lights.


Now, when it comes to the Loy Krathong Festival, the most important aspect is the making of the Krathong (float). As the floats are completed, the streets of the northern capital of Chiangmai and the Ping River in the northern capital are lined with one beautiful float after another. On the first day of the festival, the small Krathong, which is made from banana stems and leaves, is carried down the river where it is set afloat. This smaller vessel is adorned with incense sticks, flowers, candles, and even small coins. Following are the larger vessels, all incredibly beautiful.

Historians will tell you that the floating of the Krathong is meant to persuade the local serpent ruler, Phaya Nak, to stop the monsoon rains, stop the floods, and return the Thai rivers to their normal peaceful ways. Sadly, as recent as the 19th century, historians and anthropologists state that in North Vietnam, children were sacrificed for this same goal. Today, some people still believe Phaya Nak exists. In fact, they will tell you that at certain times of the year, this serpent ruler can be seen in the Mekong River.

However, the more believable story is that the Krathong float is to show respect and to give thanks to the Mother of the Waters, called Mae Kongka. The other story close to that is that Ngeuak, the female water spirits, which is also called Phra Maha Uppakut, is being honored. This being is said to be similar to a monk, spending time in the river meditating. Then on Wednesday mornings, the being comes out on his alms at the time when there is a full moon at which time, he gives rewards to people who have fed him.

Interestingly, regardless of the story you choose to believe surrounding the Loy Krathong Festival, the one thing everyone agrees on is that as the float is sent down the street or river, you are pushing away that year’s bad luck. Therefore, the people of Thailand will tell you that as your vessel is pushed away, take great care not to upset it or let it come floating back to you, which would mean a full year of bad luck.

The beliefs surrounding the Loy Krathong Festival are confusing and to most westerners, unbelievable. In fact, this particular belief is in complete opposition to the Buddhist teachings in relation to Karma. However, if in Thailand during this particular festival, enjoy the design and creativity of each float and the enthusiasm of the people as they participate in the festival. While the floats are small in today’s society, the air is still filled with excitement!


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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