Bangkok: The Ministry of Culture organized a Buddhist chanting ceremony and alms giving event on Visakha Bucha Day, aimed at encouraging Buddhists to embrace Dharma principles to sustain Buddhism. The ceremony included chanting Buddhist mantras, offering alms to monks, and a candlelight procession at Wat Suthat Thepwararam, with Phra Phromwachiramuni as the chairman of the clergy ceremony and Ms. Ploy Thanikul presiding over the laity ceremony.
According to Thai News Agency, the event was part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Culture to promote Buddhism through activities held between May 5-11, 2025, in both central and regional areas. These activities were designed to integrate teachings into daily life and promote morality and ethics through innovative means such as online platforms for Dhamma questions and sermons. The event also featured creative media to disseminate religious teachings, enhancing understanding of significant Buddhist days.
The Ministry of Culture, through the Department of Religious Affairs, organized activities in collaboration with various organizations, including a candlelight procession, alms giving to 19 monks, and visits to cultural sites. Events were held in 76 provinces, promoting local traditions and cultures while encouraging economic activities related to faith and traditional culture.
In collaboration with the Cultural Office of Sa Kaeo Province, the ‘Buddhism Promotion Week’ was organized to strengthen relations among ASEAN countries through Buddhist festival activities in Sa Kaeo Province and Banteay Meanchey Province, Cambodia.
Visakha Bucha Day, marking the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of the Buddha, is celebrated on the 15th day of the waxing moon in the 6th lunar month. On this day, Buddhists are encouraged to remember the virtues of the Buddha, adhere to precepts, and engage in religious ceremonies.
The tradition of stirring Khao Thib, believed to date back to the time of the Buddha, is also observed during Visakha Bucha Day. This involves preparing a dish with specific ingredients, symbolizing the Buddha’s enlightenment. The ceremony includes a religious ritual where monks chant and perform the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, with selected participants adhering to the Eight Precepts.
The Khao Thip ceremony, held before Visakha Bucha Day, aims to bring happiness and merit, reinforcing the faith of participants. The temple distributes Khao Madhupayasa to foster community unity, underscoring the importance of faith and sacrifice in this tradition.