‘Love Destiny’ actors among top choices for Songkran water blessings

Popular TV series Love Destiny’s actors Tanawat “Pope” Wattanaputi (R) and Ranee “Bella” Campen (L)

Provincial mayors and parents were voted as numbers 4 and 5 respectively.
A survey of 3,075 people across the country found 69 per cent are planning to make merit during the Songkran festival, with 64 per cent participating in a water-pouring ceremony on a statue of the Buddha, while 58 per cent will to ask a blessing from respected elders.

File photo

Pouring water with friends was chosen by 45 per cent as their way to celebrate Songkran, while 41 per cent will return home and celebrate with their families.
Jointly conducted with the Culture Ministry, the survey focused on conservative cultural activities reflecting traditional Thai culture during the New Year festival. It found that 74 per cent will make merit and 64 per cent will seek a blessing through pouring water on a statue of the Buddha and make sand pagodas at a temple. Meanwhile, 61 per cent will participate in water-pouring blessing ceremonies in proper “Thai” ways, while 36 per cent will dress up in Thai costumes and 29 per cent will give new clothes to elders.
“According to the survey, most people require the Culture Ministry to educate them on the traditions of Songkran and promote them via social media, promote wearing Thai costumes and publish a book on the traditions as well as ‘do and don’t’ rules for both foreigners and the young generation to conserve this festival,” said Culture Minister Vira Rajpojchanarat in a press release today.