Joanna James
In commemoration of Lao New Year, the locals are known to put on one grand show complete with many an activity. From these, Boun Pi Mai or the Laos Water Festival takes pride of place and here is why.
Traditionally, the 1st day of Boun Pi Mai is referred to by the locals as 'Maha Songkran' which in actuality is the last day of the old year. On such a day, one touring through Laotian villages will be able to feast their eyes on families and their loved ones attending to their homes by way of dusting, sweeping and whatnot in order to prepare for the festivities that lie ahead. In short, flowers are plucked and homes beautified with much gusto and vigour.
By spending time within a Buddhist temple or pagoda, one will be treated to the values and beliefs of Lao custom with devotees eager to abide by practices that have been handed down from generation to generation. Prayers are offered to the Buddha while others take time to listen to the preaching of temple monks. Interestingly, the locals bring with them scented water that is then used to wash and cleanse the Buddha statues and the water collected is thereafter is made part of one almighty splash whose details are penned down below.
As a mark of peace and respect and in the hope of brighter prospects during the forthcoming year, the locals engage in the release of animals and as a traveller, you can certainly pitch in. Animals ranging from crabs, fish and turtles are among those let loose and back into their natural habitats and in turn, you may go a step further and capture these lovely moments on your camera or phone.
Living by its name and reputation, the Laos Water Festival features raucous scenes of adults and children out and bout, drenched to the skin either traveling in vehicles or walking the streets ready to pounce on unknowing passersby. If you happen to be someone completely oblivious to what is transpiring then may you be warned that taking cover will be far more prudent than exposing yourself to the deluge just around the corner. However, fun and frolic are part and parcel of Boun Mi Pai with no one too bothered of being doused from head to toe in buckets of water or even getting caught in the crossfire of a water gun battle. Before long, travellers like you will soon be in the thick of things armed and prepared to join in the celebrations of what is more than just a water fight, but a cultural symbolism that goes back in time.
To make the most of your time during the Laos Water Festival, consider checking into a favourable form of lodging from where numerous activities and tourist hotspots might be conveniently accessed. For example, look at Avani+ Luang Prabang which is a pleasing facility for those of you seeking the comforts of a boutique hotel. Luang Prabang comes across as an important center during the said Festival which tends to go on for a week at best in this region of Laos. The strikingly charming costume parade that begins along the main avenue in Luang Prabang from Wat Pha Mahathat to Wat Xieng Thong serves as one of the best ways in which to understand the importance associated with such a celebration. All in all, each activity followed during Boun Pi Mai is done so to evoke goodwill, luck and blessings on all those fortunate enough to be in Laos during this time.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
