Celebrating Songkran in Thailand, April 2025, marks the Thai New Year and the arrival of 2568 BE (Buddhist Era) in the Thai calendar. But what exactly is the Thai calendar, and how did it come to be? Let’s dive into its fascinating history!
What Year Is It in Thailand?
During Songkran 2025, Thailand welcomes 2568 BE. The Thai calendar, also called the Buddhist Calendar, counts years from the passing of Gautama Buddha, dated to 543 BCE. To find the Thai year, simply add 543 to the Gregorian year (2025 + 543 = 2568). This system is central to Thailand’s cultural and religious identity.
A Journey Through the Thai Calendar’s History
The Thai calendar weaves together Buddhist, Hindu, and local traditions, evolving over centuries into the unique system used today. Here’s a look at its story:
1. Ancient Roots
The calendar’s origins lie in ancient Indian systems, particularly the Saka Era, brought to Thailand through trade and the Khmer Empire’s influence. In the Sukhothai Kingdom (13th–14th centuries), a lunisolar calendar—blending lunar months and solar years—was used, guided by Hindu astrology.
2. The Buddhist Era Takes Hold
By the Ayutthaya period (14th–18th centuries), the Buddhist Era (BE) became prominent, starting from the Buddha’s Parinirvana in 543 BCE. This aligned Thailand with other Theravada Buddhist nations, like Sri Lanka, strengthening cultural ties.
3. Reforms and Modernization
Earlier, Thailand used the Chula Sakarat system (starting 638 CE) for royal records. In 1888, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) introduced the solar-based Suriyakati calendar, keeping the Buddhist Era but aligning with Western systems. By 1941, the Gregorian calendar’s structure was adopted for civil use, with January 1 as the New Year, though BE years remained (e.g., 1941 CE = 2484 BE).
4. Songkran and Lunar Traditions
Songkran, once a movable date based on lunar cycles, was fixed to April 13–15 in the 20th century for consistency. Even today, lunar calculations guide religious festivals like Visakha Bucha, preserving Thailand’s spiritual heritage.
5. A Living Tradition
The Thai calendar is more than dates—it’s a cultural heartbeat. Songkran’s water fights and rituals symbolize renewal, tied to ancient agricultural cycles. The calendar also embraces astrology, with zodiac signs shaping traditions like naming years after animals.
Why It Matters
The Thai calendar, now a blend of Buddhist Era years, Gregorian dates, and lunar festivals, reflects Thailand’s ability to honor its past while embracing the present. As we splash water and celebrate Songkran 2568 BE, we’re part of a tradition centuries in the making.
Happy Songkran, and here’s to a vibrant 2568 BE!