Pchum Ben — 16 September

The Cambodian Buddhists believe that every year, Hell releases the souls of their ancestors for 15 days. Pchum Ben, on September 16, marks the start of the journey of souls to Purgatory, that in-between place that is neither Heaven nor Hell.

Upon arrival to Purgatory, the souls are in the form of hungry ghosts. The course of their journey will be decided by their karma and by the offerings made by their living relatives during Pchum Ben. This festival begins at the end of the Buddhist Lent. During this time, foods are cooked for the monks to generate merits that will benefit the dead.

When?
5 months from now
16 September
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