The Samui boats are on the loose again and yesterday all participating 'boats' from all temples around our island gathered in Nathon for a few days of festivities and to show off their respective 'Rua Chak Phra'.
A couple of boats lined up this morning
Usually this festival is held in October, on the 8th day of the waning moon of the 11th lunar month The moon cycle put it his year in November though. If you're interested, a few more days they will show off near the Seatran pier in Nathon and especially in the evening, being well lit up, it will loom spectacular. There's also a market, with all kinds of Thai food and bits and pieces.
The teak wooden boat from Wat Kongkaram, a couple of more pictures of this particular boat can be seen on last years report
Wat Don Tuub's 'boat' or Rua
The festival celebrates the official end of the annual three-month Buddhist Rains retreat (Phansa). The Chak Phra Festival literally means the procession of hauling the Buddha images.
The original stems from the Buddhist belief that during Phansa the Buddha went up to Heaven to preach to his mother's spirit. The day of his return to Earth is called "Ok Phansa" and the festival marks that date. It is also an occasion for religious merit making and celebrations.
Wat Praderm
The enchanting processions of revered Buddha images are carried out on land and water to represent the Buddha's return to Earth. Local people also organize boat races on the Tapi River in Surat Thani with longboats which carry up to 50 exuberant rowers, cheered along by shouting and laughing crowds along the banks of the river.
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Camille
1 comment:
Thank you so much, that was really helpful. :-) Trina
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