1 Yi Peng Lantern Festival Thailand
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Thailand looks like a scene straight out of a movie. Thousands of paper lanterns (khom loy) rise up against the backdrop of a full moon in Chiang Mai to mark the end of monsoons in the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar (usually November), on a full moon night. According to locals, making lanterns or donating them to temples is a virtuous act and a means of earning karma for the next life. Initially celebrated as a standalone event, this festival is now complemented by the Loy Krathong festival, where people make krathong or decorated baskets to float in the river as an offering to the Goddess of Water, Phra Mae Khongkha. Visit the Three Kings Monument to watch a candle-lighting ceremony and a Buddhist worship ritual or head to Thapae Gate to partake in the festival parades. Stroll along the streets of the city and admire khom fai—colourful, intricate paper lamps used to decorate houses, gardens and temples; or launch your very own khom loy and let your misfortunes float away. If your lantern disappears into the dark before the light goes out, your wish has been granted! The festival will be held from November 7 to November 9, 2022. yipenglanternfestival.in.th
2 Theyyam India
With origins in the south of India, in north Kerala, Theyyam is a dance ritual performed by members of various communities in the state. The captivating art is a combination of mime and dance and is complemented by musical instruments such as , , and . Performed to honour ancestral spirits, Theyyam can be distinguished into various forms—as many as 400—with each form characterised by different music, choreography, costume, and style. The history of the art form can be traced back to the Dravidian age and is a part of the ancient tribal culture in Kerala. Each participant represents a God, demon, or one of the
