Photo of the Day

Onlookers splash water on the feet and bodies of passing Buddhist monks in Luang Prabang, Laos to celebrate the New Year. Known as Boun Pi Mai Lao, the mid-April celebration lasts for days and includes dancing, parades, and water throwing. In Buddhism, an offering of water is a symbol of purity, compassion, and impermanence.

Community Ritual

Onlookers splash water on the feet and bodies of passing Buddhist monks in Luang Prabang, Laos to celebrate the New Year. Known as Boun Pi Mai Lao, the mid-April celebration lasts for days and includes dancing, parades, and water throwing. In Buddhism, an offering of water is a symbol of purity, compassion, and impermanence.
John Stanmeyer, Nat Geo Image Collection