There are all sorts of countries and cultures that celebrate mothers and all that they do for society. Of course, Mother’s Day is celebrated worldwide, but did you know that Thailand has its own date to celebrate mums? Mother’s Day will be celebrated shortly in Thailand, on August 12th. The reason that this date is chosen, because it coincides with the birthday of Her Majesty The Queen Sirikit – The King’s Mother, who is considered the “mother” of Thailand.
Did you know that the concept of the modern “Mother’s Day” is only over a century world? While there are certainly days in many other cultures that have celebrated motherhood; many attribute Anna Jarvis to be the founder of the holiday, as she hoped to fulfill a wish of her late mother. Jarvis celebrated the first Mother’s Day in 1908.
The flower associated with Mother’s Day in Thailand is none other than jasmine. Jasmine is meant to represent a mother’s unconditional love. Interestingly enough, jasmine isn’t native to Thailand, but that hasn’t stopped the country from using it as a cultural symbol for motherhood. Jasmin originally grew wild in Persia, which is now known as Iran.
Jasmine flowers with single petals are often more coveted due to the fact that they bear more flowers throughout the year. Common jasmine can be found in a variety of countries throughout Asia, including India and China. There are over 200 species of the plant, but is typically white or yellow, and can have a red hue in some cases. The flower has become so popular internationally for various reasons that “Jasmine” is actually one of the most common female names in the world, and the name is spelled various ways.
Jasmine is actually quite popular in Thai cuisine, as well. For example, jasmine can be found in khao chae, a summer favorite, and is also present in some other Thai desserts. Many individuals also choose to grow their own jasmine, because of its incredible fragrance that is beloved throughout the world.
While jasmine is quite popular in Thai cuisine and as a flower representing Mother’s Day; jasmine tea is also quite popular in China. Jasmine is also utilized as a decorative house plant, as well. Jasmine also is worn as a hair ornament in India, and it is also used in religious ceremonies. In fact, the jasmine is common in Hawaiian culture, Pakistan, Indonesia, Syria, and many other countries, and utilized for particular ceremonies or celebrations.
