Author: Anita Bose
Publisher: Bee Books
I was provided a media copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Have you explored the festivals in South East Asia?
Festivals of Southeast Asia is your passport to the heart of a region
where tradition and celebration intertwine in a spectacular display of culture.
From the exuberant water fights of Thailand's Songkran to the majestic rituals
of Vietnam's Tet Nguyen Dan, this book takes you on a vibrant journey through
the most cherished festivals of Thailand, Indonesia, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and
Vietnam. Discover the deep spiritual roots, rich history, and colourful customs
that make each celebration unique. With vivid storytelling and immersive
detail, Festivals of Southeast Asia invites you to experience the sights,
sounds, and flavours of these captivating cultural events as if you were there.
Whether you’re a traveller, a cultural enthusiast, a student, a researcher or
simply curious, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into the joyous heart of
Southeast Asia.
The book is a wonderfully researched book that explores the various festivals that are celebrated in the regions of Thailand, Indonesia, Burma, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. Anita has researched quite deep into the various customs and the stories behind these festivals. While reading the book, you are transported into the location you are reading about through the vivid descriptions and the pictures that accompany the text. The author has also added the sources for the information at the end of the chapters which elevate the authenticity of the information, as well as also provide sources where one can go and explore more about these festivals. My favourite part of the book was exploration of Champa civilization of Vietnam and how they celebrate the festivals. Another interesting aspect of the book is that the author has explored the link to India through the perspective of culture and festivals.
Through the lens of historical intermarriages between Indian tribes, the
wealthy, and immigrants from six other nations, the author illustrates a rich
cultural synthesis. She also highlights how Hinduism and Buddhism have adapted
into distinct regional forms influenced by diverse customs, while the
fundamental beliefs persist. The author also brings to light Indonesia's
multi-religious society where festivals are celebrated inclusively. The
similarity between Thailand's kite festival and India's Makar Sankranti further
exemplifies these cross-cultural connections.
This is a wonderful coffee table book that can be read to explore the culture that is all around is. The book scores a 4.69/5 for me.
Get a copy of the book on Amazon India.
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