Sitting by the French window I listened to the gusty wind whistling by between the sky scrapers. White sheets of heavy rain were drenching the city of Bangkok. The occasional thunder and lightening added to the drama. Was this nature's own way of welcoming "Songkran" - the Thai New Year ? I wondered. Songkran is celebrated by splashing water upon others which symbolises washing away the sins. On the New Year's Eve a rain-washed , purified, pleasant and beautiful Bangkok awaited the sunrise in high spirit.
By the time the rain eased, dusk had fallen and the far away city lights twinkled in the darkness. The cozy cool caressing evening brought back fond memories of "Kalbaishakhi" of Bengal. The storm, the thunder, the lightening followed by a heavy downpour setlling the heat . The scenery was strikingly similar. Add to this, "Nabobarsho" - the Bengali New year was almost imminent.
Songkran was observed between 13th - 15th April. Nabobarsha was celebrated on 15th April. Being a Bengali living in Bangkok, these three days proved to be a festive fusion for us.
On the cheerful Songkran morning, my son, who had been eagerly waiting for this event, skipped around in a traditional bright floral shirt with his little water gun to drench someone. Foam parties were focus of celebrations at many places. The young folks had gathered in groups across lanes and by- lanes merrily splashing water on passing cars. The fairs and puppet shows were the attractions for the evening. A sumptuous Thai dinner couldn't be far behind.
Today, Nabobarsho arrived with all its warmth and nostalgia. New clothes and bengali songs had set the mood for celebration. Exchange of pleasantries with our folks back in India made the day so special and made us feel closer to home. Lunch had to be an elaborate Bengali affair. On this day of "Poila Baisakh", I did hope for a " Kalbaishakhi" too !!!
Keeping up with the famed bengali sweet tooth, we concluded the festivities with our favourite desserts - the Thai "Mango with Sticky Rice " and the Bengali " Rashogolla" . That was heavenly !!!
With this sweet note I wish all my friends " Shubho Nabobarsho". Let the new year shower you with prosperity and happiness.
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