Phanat Nikhom –
On September 8th, 2024, the villagers of Wat Bot in Phanat Nikhom District, Chonburi Province, upheld their unique tradition of offering alms to monks with Khanom Krok, a practice exclusive to the Eastern region of Thailand.
The event took place at Wat Bot, with notable attendees including Mr. Witthaya Khunpluem, President of the Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization and joined by village headmen and Phra Khru Wichitkitchaphiwat, the abbot of Wat Bot.
During the ceremony, villagers brought over 50 Khanom Krok stoves and milled flour using an ancient stone mill, a method that captivated the participants. Mr. Somdet Wutthitrairat highlighted that this tradition, second only to a similar practice in Samut Sakhon Province, has been preserved for over 100 years. It is celebrated annually during the Buddhist Lent festival in the second week of September.
Historically, villagers would gather to make merit together during their free time from rice farming. They would prepare flour and Khanom Krok to offer to monks at Wat Bot and nearby temples. Any leftover Khanom Krok would be distributed to villagers to take home for good luck.
Additionally, the event featured a booth by the Luang Pho To Amulet Conservation Club, showcasing amulets to engage and interest the attendees.
