It is an interesting time to be in Thailand right now. Today is the festival of Loy Krathong. People float leaf and flower boats with lit candles and incense down rivers and canals.
According to wikipedia, “the act of floating away the candle raft is symbolic of letting go of all one’s grudges, anger and defilements, so that one can start life afresh on a better foot. People will also cut their fingernails and hair and add them to the raft as a symbol of letting go of the bad parts of oneself.”
Thailand is also preparing for the cremation of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana. The cremation will be held on the large space of land near the Golden Temple called Sanam Luang from November 14th to the 19th.
I went to Sanam Luang yesterday where the royal crematorium has now been set up. Lots of people were there already wearing black to pay their respects and taking pictures of the golden crematorium. Most bars and entertainment venues will be closed across Thailand during this time.
