Om Mani Padme Hum

IN FOCUS

In northern Laos, at the center of the historic town of Luang Prabang, is a daily ritual called the Alms Giving Ceremony that is a significant cultural and religious ritual every morning, for more than 30 active Buddhist monasteries in the region.

The tradition of alms-giving dates back centuries and is rooted in Theravada Buddhism, the predominant religion in Laos. It is believed to have been introduced to Luang Prabang during the 14th century when the city became the capital of the Kingdom of Lan Xang.

The monks walk single-file, barefoot through the streets, carrying their alms bowls, while the local people gather along the route to offer food and other items. The alms can include sticky rice, fruits, sweets, and other necessities. It has a reciprocal relationship between people who give and receive alms — the monks are sustained by the offerings of food and in turn, provide spiritual merit for the almsgivers. 

Its the little things here, that tell me a story. The cardboard laid out by the locals each morning to soften the barefoot steps, the young monks at the back walking so fast as my shutter fails to keep up with them, or the gentle and kind faces of the alms givers, ready to feed the monks full of love and admiration.

Like many things in this world the impact of tourism has changed the experience dramatically, but find the right street away from the tourist noise, and the beauty of the experience can still come to life.