Phnom penh: Cambodian people across the country are celebrating Chol Vossa (enter rainy season) or Rainy Retreat, an annual Buddhist festival that begins today. This festival, significant in the Buddhist calendar, marks a period of spiritual reflection and devotion, running from July 30 to October 27 in pagodas throughout Cambodia. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during this three-month-long festival, monks are required to stay within their pagodas and refrain from collecting alms as they usually do. While they can accept invitations from devotees and travel during the day, they are not permitted to stay outside the pagoda overnight. This tradition is observed to enhance spiritual discipline and focus during the rainy season. Buddhist followers participate by offering Tean Vossa, a large candle that remains lighted throughout the festival, symbolizing the light for life. The candle is believed to illuminate the darker aspects of life, guiding individuals towards nirvana. Alongside the candle, devotees also provide oil, robes, and other food supplies to support the monks during this retreat period. The conclusion of the Rainy Retreat will be marked by the Chegn Vossa Festival, which will also be celebrated with reverence and traditional practices.