"Thai Garland"

Hello Readers,

It was just pasted Valentine’s day, so it makes me think of the flower garland from Thailand, which is very beautiful and creative as well.

           This has unique ways of arranging flowers and using them in decorations, which are different from other places. Thai garlands called "Phuang Malai". Flower arranging became increasing popular during the reign of King Rama V. The ladies of the Court spent many hours in arranging flowers.

            Flower garlands are a common sight in India and Southeast Asia. These 
perishable pieces of art are traditionally given as gifts or used during religious ceremonies and weddings. The garlands take on different shapes and come in a myriad of colors. Thai garlands have very intricate designs that can be circular or resemble necklaces or have two tail ends with ribbons. Thai garlands are known as Phuang Malai because Jasmine flowers often hold it together.

            The type of garland 
most commonly given to greet arrivals, or to farewell friends and relatives, are those with two strands of flowers connected by a length of ribbon with bows or rosettes attaching the ribbon to the flowers. The most common way of making "Phuang Malai" is by threading the variety of petals and flowers on a cord with the use of a huge needle. Garlands can vary widely in design as the whims of the "manufactures" cause them to mix and match colors and flowers. A garland can take on different shapes. It can either be circular to resemble a necklace or bracelet ending with two or more details of flower ribbons, or long with two strands of flowers separated by a ribbon.

            The most common type of Phuang Malai is held together by a string of tiny white malik blossoms. Yet another type of jasmine, this one without smell, is strung onto the garland. There is something particular about this flower called Dok Ruk, the flower of love. The resilient Dok Ruk is what keeps the garland from withering away all too soon, helping it last for a maximum of five days. Yellow marigold or red roses add the final touches and the garland is ready.

             This beautiful bud of divinity has a lovely fragrant scent and 
sweet aroma. Lotus, Tuberose, carnations, and orchids also make very beautiful garlands. The more popularly known leis are modern interpretations of the traditional garlands but are still quite lovely.