Thai people observe Loy Krathong festival during the time when there
is a high water level over the country, on the full moon night of the 12th lunar
month. As the most fascinating water-based cultural event reflecting local
wisdom, way of living and refined culture, it represents a good image of Thailand.
Loy Krathong festival is a time to show the true artistic value of rituals,
costume, arranging flowers, fine arts, folk dance, folk theatre and other festive
entertainments including light decoration. As a matter of fact, Loy Krathong
celebrations are laden with value. It promotes solidarity and cooperation among
community members as seen in the merry making activities. These include
contest of various kinds: Krathong designs, Nang Noppamas, and the cooperative
effort to organize such a good old local tradition into a broader concept of
nationwide annual celebration of Loy Krathong festival.
The Ministry of Culture has developed cultural policy directed at the
promotion of Loy Krathong festival as a local cultural asset to gain increased
revenue, fame and cultural identity at the national level, the ASEAN level and
the global level.
On behalf of the Ministry of Culture, I am pleased that the Department
of Cultural Promotion has published the book of Loy Krathong festival as a
means of developing a deeper understanding of the intrinsic value, the meaning
and the legendary account of Loy Krathong festival. This is the real achievement
for public awareness of preserving Thai cultural heritage and promoting it to
be enlisted as the world cultural heritage.
(Vira Rojpojchanarat)
Minister of Culture
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