YALA, Thailand – The annual Vegetarian Festival parade at Wat Phothisatto Chaomae Kuan Im (Wat Kuan Im) in Betong District, Yala Province, was held on October 26, in a solemn atmosphere following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
The event, led by Sakul Lengluckkul, President of the Betong Chinese Cultural Preservation Association, brought together representatives from various local associations and members of the Thai-Chinese community to take part in the procession around Betong Municipality.
This year’s parade differed from previous years but continued to include spirit medium groups, lion and dragon dance troupes, including participants from Chen Wang Miao Temple in Malaysia, in a show of continued cultural exchange between Thailand and Malaysia. However, unlike past celebrations, this year’s procession took place in silence—without the sound of firecrackers or lively music—replaced instead by an atmosphere of reverence and mourning in remembrance of Her Majesty The Queen Mother.
The procession began with a royal portrait of Her Majesty The Queen Mother, followed by banners expressing condolences from various associations, spirit medium groups, dragon and lion dancers, flag bearers, and sacred palanquins carrying deities. Stretching nearly one kilometer, the parade drew strong participation from residents and tourists who lined the streets to observe the ceremony. Upon reaching the Betong Municipal Fresh Market, participants paused to observe a minute of silence to honor Her Majesty’s benevolence and express their profound loyalty and gratitude.
The Vegetarian Festival will run through October 29, 2025, with activities adapted to reflect the atmosphere of mourning. On the night of October 26, spirit mediums and devotees performed the traditional tile-walking and fire-walking rituals at the open plaza above the Betong Mongkollit Tunnel, continuing the sacred traditions of the festival in a spirit of respect and remembrance. (NNT)
