Kan Ben festival is the traditional Ceremony of the Cambodian Buddhist that our ancestors have been observing for generations as the worthy heritage to the next generation.
Our forefathers defined this ceremony from the 1st to 14th day of lunar cycle of waning moon in the month of Bhadrapada (September) as Kan Ben ceremony and the 15th day of waning moon as Phchum Ben (Festival of the ghost). These 15 days are called Phchum’s season (Rodov Phium) which is held every year. It is believed that during this time the guardians of hell release all hungry ghosts to come to earth to appreciate the merit of their relatives who bring foods, fruits and other requisites to offer the monks in the Pagoda and dedicate merit to them. After the hungry ghosts appreciate the merit that their relatives dedicate to them, they are no longer hungry ghosts in Hell but they turn to gods living in Heaven. With gratitude, they bless their relatives who have accumulated good karma on their behalf and wish them happiness and prosperity. That is why our forefathers have been holding this ceremony from the ancient time until now.
Note: Pchum Ben’s season in this year started from September 24 to October 8, 2010. September 24 to October 7 is Kan Ben, September 8 is Bon Pchum Ben.
.jpg)