The traditional Songkran blessing ceremony for elders is called Rod Nam Dam Hua. In this custom, younger people respectfully pour water over the hands of parents, grandparents, or other senior relatives and receive their blessings.
Rod Nam Dam Hua is strongly associated with family respect and renewal at the Thai traditional New Year. The ceremony may include asking forgiveness, presenting gifts, and expressing gratitude toward elders.
It is distinct from Song Nam Phra, in which water is ceremonially offered to Buddha images. Both practices involve water and may occur during the same festival, but their recipients and social meanings differ.
The form of the ceremony varies by region and family. Northern Thailand has particularly strong traditions connected with honoring elders, while the broader principle of respectful water-pouring is recognized across the country during Songkran.