Lampang: Once a year, the people of Lampang come together to uphold the ancient tradition of "Taan Khao Mai - lighting a fire for the monks." This event, held at Wat Chomphu Luang in Chomphu Subdistrict, Mueang District, is a unique cultural practice that sees villagers braving the cold to make merit and offer warmth to the Buddha statue.
According to Thai News Agency, the residents bring offerings such as flowers, incense, candles, and freshly harvested rice to the temple. These offerings, including both unhusked and steamed sticky rice, are presented to the Buddha statue before the villagers place food items like khao lam and khao jee in the alms bowls prepared by the temple. Additionally, firewood is gathered to create a fire in front of the temple, symbolically warming the Buddha amidst the chilly 11-degree Celsius weather. This ritual has been a longstanding practice in the region.
The 'Tan Khao Jee Khao Lam' ceremony is held on the 15th day of the waxing moon in the fourth month of the northern calendar, following the completion of the rice harvest. The tradition, which includes offering monks food made from the new rice harvest, is also an occasion to dedicate merit to the deceased. It is organized annually by local communities and temples, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the northern region and ensuring the continuation of these local traditions.