Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – On Tuesday, the Pha That Luang Pagoda shone brightly, surrounded by vibrant colors and melodious music. The traditional wax castle parade, involving thousands of participants, became the highlight of this year's Pha That Luang Festival.
The parade began in the afternoon at Wat Nong Boon, with groups from various districts of the capital carrying exquisitely crafted yellow wax pyramids slowly towards the pagoda. These wax pyramids, decorated with candles, flowers, and banknotes, embody the people's devout faith and express their hopes for a prosperous year ahead. The presence of the wives of party and government leaders, including the Minister of Culture and Tourism, highlighted the event's dual significance of religious sanctity and cultural heritage.
Participants in traditional attire marched through Pha That Luang Square to the accompaniment of resounding drums and gongs. The afternoon sun shone brightly on the pagoda, and crowds waved national flags, cheered, and posed for photos, creating a lively atmosphere. The parade was a large-scale event, with over 5,000 participants, including monks, officials, students, and people from all walks of life. The wax stupas, meticulously crafted by families and communities, are offered near the stupa after being circumambulated three times in reverence. This practice not only accumulates merit for participants but also strengthens community cohesion.
"This is not only a religious tradition but also a symbol of national pride and unity," said a local resident. As Laos' most important religious and cultural event, the Pha That Luang Festival is held from November 1st to 5th, featuring a rich and diverse program including music and dance performances, large-scale almsgiving, trade markets, and food stalls. This year, a special exhibition of Lao handicrafts and silk has been added, promoting the integration of industry and tourism.
The activities on Wednesdays are particularly vibrant: a large almsgiving ceremony in the morning, a traditional hockey match in the afternoon, and a candlelight parade in the evening. Police, emergency services, and volunteers provided security throughout the event. The streets were lined with stalls, bustling with activity, and the festive atmosphere was infectious. This grand event, centered around the Pha That Luang stupa enshrining Buddha relics, vividly demonstrates the enduring power of Lao culture and faith.
