Pattaya, Thailand-
On October 18th, 2024, Wat Chaimongkol Royal Monastery in South Pattaya near Walking Street organized its annual Tak Bat Devo ceremony, drawing a large number of Buddhists who gathered to make merit by offering alms.
The event was attended by notable figures such as Mr. Banjong Banthuraprayuk, Vice President of the Pattaya City Council, Mr. Wutthithon Saengurai, Pattaya City Council member, Mr. Surat Mekhawarakul, President of the Banglamung District Cultural Council and treasurer of Wat Chaimongkol Royal Monastery, and Mr. Mana Yaprakam, President of the Pattaya City Cultural Council.
Tak Bat Devo Rohana, a tradition dating back to the time of the Buddha, is held annually after the end of Buddhist Lent on the 1st waning moon of the 11th lunar month. During the ceremony, participants bring sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves, known as “look yon,” to offer as alms to the monks. The monks receive offerings of rice, dried food, and sticky rice from the faithful.
After the alms-giving ceremony, the temple collects and sorts the food, which is then shared among the participants. This act of merit-making not only supports the monks but also helps generate income to support the temple. The event highlights the community’s faith and dedication to continuing this ancient tradition.
