Phnom penh: People go to a local pagoda in Sangkat Teuk Thla, Khan Sen Sok, Phnom Penh this morning to offer foods and other offerings to Buddhist monks to dedicate to the souls of their ancestors and fallen soldiers on the Pchum Ben Day.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the event saw residents from various parts of the city converging on the pagoda to participate in the traditional ceremony. The gathering is part of an annual observance where families pay their respects to the deceased, a deeply rooted tradition in Cambodian culture.

Participants brought an array of foods and offerings, which were presented to the monks during the ceremony. These offerings are meant to honor the spirits of the departed, including ancestors and those who lost their lives in conflicts. The observance is a significant event in the Buddhist calendar, reflecting the community’s respect for their heritage and the spiritual connection with past generations.

Pchum Ben Day holds considerable importance in Cambodian society, emphasizing the collective remembrance and cultural practices that bind the community together. The atmosphere at the pagoda was one of solemnity and reverence as people engaged in prayers and rituals throughout the morning.