The early-morning mass ceremony, at Saphan Hin, was organised by Phuket City Municipality, whose Mayor, Somjai Suwannasupapana, explained, “Our aim is to preserve the traditions of the Thai people and to ensure they are handed down to succeeding generations, and as a way of preserving peace in the country.”
Dressed in their finest silks, the great and good of Phuket, with Governor Maitri Inthusut to the fore, joined in the cheerful occasion.
Elsewhere, most people just couldn’t wait to get out the water pistols, super-soakers and fire hoses. Almost every soi on the island has its crew of youngsters ready to “sprinkle” water on the hands of passers-by, and on their heads and bodies.
In Patong, epicentre of fun, the bacchanal had already started yesterday with thousands of foreigners in swimsuits out to give the locals a good soaking, and vice-versa.
The authorities have earmarked six points around the island for full-on water battles. They are Soi Bangla in Patong, Karon Park, Kamala Park, Nai Yang Beach and the road along Surin Beach.
And, of course, Saphan Hin – though only after the worthies have left.
The Phuket News wishes all its readers a Very Happy Songkran and a healthy and happy New Year.