Prime Minister welcomes UNESCO registration “Thai Songkran” is a program that reflects the intangible cultural heritage of mankind. Thailand is ready to welcome visitors from all over the world to experience Songkran tradition. Organize a big celebration in the town square on December 7th. BANGKOK – The director-general of the Wat Sudat Cultural Development Department reveals the story behind its success. Very well answered all questions related to the information provided. Until the approval of the UNESCO Committee
Thai people all over the country were very happy when “UNESCO” registered and declared the 4th Thai cultural heritage “Songkran” as a World Cultural Heritage for 2023 on December 6th. The 18th meeting of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage was held in Kazan. The Republic of Botswana has an agenda to register Thailand’s Songkran heritage as cultural heritage. Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and Govt, Director General of Cultural Development Department Mr. He was the head of the Thai delegation that attended the meeting.
The meeting had 49 items on the agenda, divided into items representing the cultural heritage of mankind. 45 items were filtered including the agenda for consideration of Songkran in Thailand. The other part is 4 items that require urgent protection. The 3rd item is being considered by Thailand. The atmosphere of the meeting was lively. Amid uproar from the Thai delegation, the committee carefully considered Thailand’s presentations and announced its official approval to register the “Songkran Thailand” heritage as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Then the representatives from different countries clapped their hands and expressed their congratulations. Mr. Kovid thanked UNESCO. Mr. Setha also shows a video of his gratitude
Mr. Kovid said this is my privilege. It is a success to have the Songkran tradition recorded in Thailand. The Ministry of Culture, through the Department of Cultural Development, goes through domestic procedures and submits documents requesting registration to UNESCO from 2020. It is a proposal for registration by a country. Prior to entering the appointment, the mother answered all questions regarding the provision of information very well. The group received appreciation and presented information and knowledge about the Thai Songkran tradition to the gathering, “Chongkran” meaning the movement of the sun from one zodiac sign to another. It is an old Thai tradition that has been followed since ancient times. Practices that have been practiced for generations are followed and practiced. The beliefs and practices of the Thai people are different in each region. There are important activities like cleaning of houses, temples and public property. Visiting the temple to pay respect and devotion to the dead relatives. Showing respect or apologizing to an elder. or including a user greeting each other. Poured water on the head with blessings Organizing Fun and Joyful Activities Water sprinkling will start from 13th to 14th April. In some places it may continue for 2-3 more days. On 15th April the temple should be consecrated.
“Chongkran is considered a beautiful and valuable tradition. It represents motherhood. It is an opportunity to express gratitude and good wishes to the benefactors. Showing generosity to family, relatives and communities emphasizes the importance of using water in a respectful manner. Do not use dirty water to splash on each other. There are also important days related to Chongkran, such as Thai New Year. Day. The Department of Senior Citizens Day and Family Day has prepared a plan to celebrate the record throughout the year 2024 and will take the lead in driving and propagating the values, identity and importance of Songkran heritage and importing it to Dhaka by the Government,” said Mr. Kovid said.
On December 7, at Khon Mueang Plaza, Bangkok City Hall and Wat Sudat Thepwararam, Prime Minister Mr. Shri. According to reporters, there will be a celebration to preside over the statue of Satta Tavisin Buddha and congratulate him on the UNESCO Thai Songkran inscription. And the monks poured water to bless the elders. There was a performance by the Sundarabarn band. It has been declared as a heritage symbol of Thailand. Cultural wisdom includes 4 items that represent humanity’s intangible cultural heritage: Khon, Thai Massage, Nora, and most recently Songkran.
Mr. Chetha Thavisin, the Prime Minister, said that all traditional Songkran activities are considered sacred. It contains various elements of cultural heritage. Well-known Songkran traditions include offering alms to monks and bathing Buddha images. Pouring water on the heads of respected elders as well as performing folk dramas are associated with Songkran mythology. Therefore, Songkran in Thailand represents an intangible cultural heritage. Cultural diversity reflects human creativity and is essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The Government is happy to work with the international community to develop knowledge and practices related to Songkran. It is hoped that discussions and mutual understanding will lead to peace and stability for all parties. The government welcomes visitors from all over the world to participate in the festival. Experience the Songkran tradition in Thailand with a smile and warm welcome.