The Traditional Thai New Year Celebration: Songkran is not only famous for its water splashing festivities but also for the gentle and distinctive fragrances associated with this important holiday.
The Songkran festival would not be complete without the fragrant water, known as “Nam Ob Thai”, a pure aromatic water that refreshes during the hot days of April in Thailand.
Ingredients for preparing and distilling Nam Ob Thai. (Photo: Thaipost.net).
Nam Ob Thai is traditionally used in the Songkran blessing ceremony called “Rod Nam Dum Hua”. During this ceremony, the Thai people pour fragrant water over the hands and feet of their parents and elders. In return, they receive forgiveness and blessings from their respected ancestors.
“Nam Ob” refers to a type of liquid perfume made from fresh flowers such as jasmine, orange blossoms, and breadfruit flowers, which is then distilled using fragrant candles (made from orange peels, frankincense, brown sugar, beeswax, and nutmeg). The result of this process is a light yellow liquid, produced in small quantities, typically enough for personal and family use during the festival.
Ms. Thiwaporn Sektrakul, an expert who learned the recipe for making Nam Ob Thai from ancient royal traditions, stated: “Nam Ob Thai is considered a traditional Thai perfume, which can be mixed with water as it contains no alcohol. Unlike Western perfumes, Nam Ob Thai is made from pure water, without chemicals and is affordable. We wish blessings upon everyone by pouring fragrant water mixed with pure water over them. The water is both cool and fragrant. In hot weather, people feel refreshed with the cool and aromatic water splashed on them.”
Nam Ob Thai is commonly used in the traditional Songkran blessing ceremony called “Rod Nam Dum Hua.” (Photo: istock)
Research shows that various fragrances such as agarwood, sandalwood oil, perfumed oils, and skincare oils were first imported to Thailand by Brahmins during the Sukhothai era in Thailand (around 1238 AD).
Ms. Thiwaporn Sektrakul shared: “Ancient Thai records mention that Queen Nang Noppamart, or Si Sudachan Devi, used fragrant water as cosmetics during the Sukhothai era, marking the beginning of Nam Ob’s use in Thailand. Fragrant water was particularly popular in royal circles throughout the reign of King Rama V (Chulalongkorn). Within the palace, royal family members even held contests to create special fragrance recipes for the King. Each royal residence had its own secret formula with a distinct scent. Even today, the royal consorts in the court are renowned for possessing unique and exquisite fragrances.”
Kindergarten students at RAIS International School pour Nam Ob Thai fragrant water to show respect to their teachers during the Songkran festival 2023. (Photo: RAIS)
The process of creating Nam Ob fragrant water is detailed and complex, taking many hours or even days to complete, but the final result is spectacular. Ms. Thiwaporn noted that every time she prepares “Nam Ob Thai,” its fragrance can waft far into the air.
During the Songkran festival, the Thai people never forget to purchase fragrant water to pour over their loved ones to bless them for the Thai New Year, as a beautiful tradition with an unforgettable aroma.
