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Songkran Festival: Preserving Thai Traditions at Chulabhorn Royal Academy
On April 10, 2026, Chulabhorn Royal Academy (CRA) hosted the event "Songkran: Preserving Thai Traditions." The ceremony was led by Professor Emeritus Rajata Rajatanavin, M.D. Acting Deputy Secretary-General of Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Acting Director of HRH Princess Chulabhorn College of Medical Science, who delivered New Year blessings to foster prosperity and celebrate the Songkran Festival, the traditional Thai New Year. The event was attended by executives, physicians, nurses, faculty members, staff, and students at the Sports and Recreation Center, CRA Hall, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Laksi, Bangkok.
The event aimed to preserve the graceful traditions of Songkran and encourage staff and students to appreciate the value of Thai culture through collective activities. The festivities included:
The Buddha Image Bathing Ceremony (Song Nam Phra).
The Rod Nam Dum Hua Ceremony, where participants poured scented water on the hands of executives to seek their blessings.
Cultural Performances and Workshops, such as Thai classical dance, sword dance (Ram Dab), and the "Roeng Songkran" circle dance.
Traditional Thai Craft Stations, featuring "Look Choop" (mung bean marzipan) making, coconut milk flower jelly crafting, orchid garland weaving, and Thai silk butterfly keychain making.
Participants added vibrant colors to the celebration by wearing traditional Thai attire and floral patterns, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity throughout the day.
"Songkran" is an ancient Thai tradition passed down through generations. It is characterized by grace, gentleness, kindness, and a spirit of gratitude and mutual respect. "Water" serves as a symbolic medium for building friendships and goodwill. Rooted in the belief that Songkran marks the Thai New Year, Chulabhorn Royal Academy recognizes its cultural significance and remains committed to organizing this project to ensure these beautiful traditions endure for generations to come.
