Lao people started their traditional New Year festival - Bun Pi Mai - on April 14 with a host of festive activities.

The first day of the three-day Bun Pi Mai is called Sangkhane Luang,or the last day of the old year. On the day, people clean their housesin preparation for the New Year. They earn merit and blessings bybuilding mounds of sand, usually on the river banks and temple grounds,which are then decorated with small triangular flags, flowers, money,and candles.

The second day, on April 15, iscalled Sangkhane Nao, the day between the old and the New Year; it isconsidered neither part of the old year nor the New Year. Sangkhane Naois also known as the day of rest and all work is forbidden. Only festiveactivities are to take place, such as visiting relatives and friends,taking a day trip or the customary throwing of water on friends andpassersby.

People also splash water onto one anotheras well as houses, livestock, and production tools to wish forlongevity, happiness, and wealth.

The third day ofthe Lao New Year festival is called Sangkhane Kheun Pi Mai. It is thestart of the New Year and the most joyous day of the festival. Peopletraditionally go to the temple and make offerings to earn merit.

This year’s traditional New Year festival takes place amid the 60 thanniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and preparations forthe 40 th National Day.

Laos has alsoorganised a variety of activities showcasing its traditions and culturaldiversity so as to attract tourists to the country during thefestival.-VNA