Phnom Penh:The Pchum Ben Festival, also known as the Festival for the Dead, is set to take place from October 10 to 12. This significant event is considered the second most important festival in Cambodia after the Khmer New Year.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Pchum Ben is a time when Cambodians pay respects to their deceased ancestors. The festival traditionally begins on the first day of the waning moon of Photrobot in the Khmer lunar calendar and culminates on the 15th day. During this period, families prepare offerings, including various foods and traditional cakes like Num Ansorm and Num Korm.

The festival is deeply rooted in traditional beliefs, where it is said that the King of the Underworld, YSma, allows the souls of the deceased to visit their families. Cambodians prepare Num Ansorm, a sticky rice cake mixed with coconut milk and various fillings, and Num Korm, a sweet treat wrapped in banana leaves, as offerings to these spirits.

Buddhist practices are integral to the festival, with devotees offering food to elderly parents before presenting it to monks. This tradition underscores the belief that parents are revered as the Buddha of each family. The festival also sees Cambodians participating in religious ceremonies, listening to sermons, and conducting rituals in pagodas.

The origins of Pchum Ben trace back to ancient Brahmanism, where offerings were made to the spirits in monasteries. Today, these practices continue, especially in rural areas, with rice balls known as Bay Ben being prepared and used in ceremonies to honor ancestors.

The festival concludes with the Bangsuk´l ceremony, where prayers are recited for the deceased, and families often host banquets. The celebrations end with hopes for prosperity and a fruitful harvest season.