Bangkok: BAAC joins in continuing the "Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival" tradition for the year 2025. Mr. Chatchai Sirilai, President of the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), along with senior executives and BAAC staff, participated in the festival to jointly conserve and continue local arts and culture. The event is renowned for its exquisite candle trees, which have long impressed the public and tourists.
According to Thai News Agency, in 2025, BAAC contributed to the creation of a large carved candle tree at Wat Chaiyamongkol, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani District. The candle tree, named 'The Juti of Phra Sri Ariyametrai Bodhisattva', stands at 16 meters and 57 centimeters long and 5.5 meters high. It showcases six stories through its intricate carvings.
The front of the procession features Indra riding an elephant, symbolizing the elegance of Indra, a god in Hinduism and Buddhism. Following this is a depiction of the five-headed Ananta Naga, representing greatness and protection. The third part shows the Bodhisattva Sri Ariya Maitreya seated on a glass throne. The trunk of the candle is carved with images of the Bodhisattva Sri Ariya Maitreya and Kinnari holding a lotus flower. The fifth part includes a Buddha statue in meditation posture, while the last part depicts a Buddha image in the First Sermon posture.
Additionally, the festival features a procession of dancers from the Phuttamettawitthaya School, supported by BAAC. The theme, 'Fon Salavan Sa-on Isan Mini Heart', highlights a local performance art from the Mekong Basin. This art form, particularly popular in the southern part of Lao PDR and Thailand, serves to preserve and continue cultural traditions.
BAAC invites everyone to promote cultural tourism at the 'Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival 2025' from 9-13 July. Visitors can enjoy products from BAAC farmer customers, including Sawang Wirawong cashews, Madam So Ubon noodles, and Intara rice. These offerings reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region and cater to health-conscious individuals.