Rap Bua Festival
October 15, 2016
 Venue: Khlong Samrong, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan The annual Rap Bua Festival, or literally translated as the ritual of receiving lotus flowers, is a one-of-a-kind ancient Buddhist tradition of the local people of Bang Phli District in Samut Prakan province. T The tradition, which has passed through generations, is a way of showing local’s munificence and generosity to the village’s newcomers as well as demonstrating their local way of life along the river. It takes place annually on the day before the waxing moon on the 11th month of the lunar calendar, which this year falls on 15 October. Highlight is the magnificent barge procession of a replica of Luang Phor Toh Buddhist image, highly-revered by the people of Samut Prakan, along the Samrong canal. Local people along the banks of the canal will have the chance to respectfully throw lotus flowers into the vessel. Locals believe that if their lotus flowers would land at where the revered Buddha image sits, their wishes may come true. In the old days, young men and women will use this opportunity to make a wish for their soul mate. But with the ever-changing economic and social cultures, coupled with a more convenient land transport, this tradition has been somewhat overlooked. Therefore, the Bangphli District Administrative Organization is coordinating with relevant public and private sectors to promote the conservation of this time-honoured cultural heritage for the next generations. Contact Details: Bangphli District Administrative Organization Tel: +66 (0) 2337 4059 For more information: http://www.tatnews.org/events/rap-bua-festival |
