PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN: At least 2,000 people packed an alms giving ceremony in Muang district around midnight and into Wednesday morning, celebrating an event they believe will bring them substantial blessing.
The ceremony was held at seaside Saran Witee Bridge opposite the Muang municipality public park. It was led by provincial deputy governor Chotnarin Kerdsom, Grp Capt Adisak Srisarakon, deputy chief of the air force’s Wing 5, and Danai Chanchaochai, chairman of the Do-D Foundation.
The ceremony marked the 15th day of the waxing moon on Wednesday, when it is believed that Phra Upakut comes from a vortex to collect alms in the human world.
Some believe giving alms during this time will bring them strong blessing, which also includes prosperity in business and suppression of evil.
A total of 59 monks collected alms from merit makers who formed a long line, stretching back about one kilometre from the bridge to the provincial administrative organisation offices. The line also passed the Phra Upakut statue.
Anuphab Poonsawat, leader of a local merit-making group, said thousands of people from across the country usually attend the ceremony whenever it is held.
This year, the 15th day of the waxing moon on Wednesday is celebrated three times – on the nights of Jan 30, June 26 and Oct 23, he said.
