Songkran is Thailand’s most significant water festival. The name Songkran comes from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘passing’ or ‘approaching’. The festival takes place in April every year from April 13 to 15. The Songkran festival, also known as the traditional ‘Thai New Year’, is a time when family and friends gather to pay gratitude to elders and also show a sign of respect to elders in a sacred ritual, which involves pouring scented water on their hands and also giving them new clothes. Water is poured on the Buddha images and hands of the elders and senior persons as a mark of respect.

Birla Carbon Thailand celebrated Songkran with all its tradition. The Vice Governor of Angthong, Mr. Pramual Mungmart, the Chief Guest of the function was welcomed at the plant. Several community leaders such as Mayor from Posa, Huapai, Saithong, Jampalor, Kamnan, the village chief and Chief of Labor Officer also joined and took part in the event.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Sanjeev Sood, Regional Resident, South East and Far East Asia, Birla Carbon, shared his perspective on how the Songkran festival shares resemblance with Indian festivals. He further shared that we are indeed very privileged that elders from the community have taken time out to bless us. Mr. Pramual shared his perspective on local Songkran culture where Thai people believe that water is spiritually purifying and cleansing. It takes away bad luck and grievances from the past year and blesses everyone with fortune and happiness for the year ahead.

All the elderly from the community were invited to BCT as a mark of respect to them and to seek their continued blessings. Around 60 community members joined BCT to celebrate the festive at the plant.

The celebration included locals collecting water that had been poured over the Buddha statues for cleansing. All the plant employees poured water over community elderly, expressed gratitude and sought their continued blessings. All employees participated in the traditional Songkran event with joy and enthusiasm.