The main offering includes a specially designated robe along with "forest of gifts" trees decorated with monk requisites, monetary donations, and other necessities. During the formal ceremony, laypeople present these offerings to the entire Sangha rather than individual monks. A senior monk then leads the Sangha in a formal procedure to determine which monk will receive the principal Kathina robe based on need and seniority. This monk accepts the robe on behalf of the entire community. The ceremony includes special chanting, Dhamma talks explaining Kathina's significance, and the formal transfer of merit. The atmosphere combines reverence with celebration, as this is considered one of the most meritorious offerings laypeople can make. The ceremony often concludes with a festive community meal and cultural performances.

Kathina (or Gathinna in Lao pronunciation) is one of Buddhism's most ancient and significant ceremonies, established by the Buddha himself over 2,500 years ago. The ceremony occurs…