Singburi: Dr. Jetsada performed a sword dance to honor the villagers of Bang Rachan. Mr. Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn, party leader and prime ministerial candidate, alongside Mr. Jetsada Tonawanik, also a prime ministerial candidate, led a delegation from the Rak Chart Party at the annual Bang Rachan Camp heroes’ tribute ceremony held at Wat Pho Kao Ton near the sacred pond in Singburi Province. The ceremony commemorated the virtues and sacrifices of past heroes.
According to Thai News Agency, the event commenced with a dignified procession from the Bang Rachan Heroes Monument to the Dharma courtyard of Wat Pho Kao Ton. Mr. Waradisorn Onnuch, Governor of Singburi Province, presided over the ceremony, leading attendees in lighting incense and candles, applying gold leaf, and offering garlands to Luang Pu Phra Ajarn Thamchoti at the Luang Pu Phra Ajarn Thamchoti Shrine.
At 9:09 AM, Mr. Jetsada performed a traditional sword dance. The dance began with paying respects to his teachers, bowing to deities, and demonstrating combat techniques, concluding with bowing to heaven and earth.
The ceremony continued with a ritual offering led by Mr. Chaiwut, who also sought forgiveness for any wrongdoings. The Rak Chart Party members participated by lighting offerings to honor Luang Pu Thamchoti and the Bang Rachan heroes. The people of Bang Rachan also lit candles at the sacred pond.
Phra Khru Wichit Phutthikhun, the abbot of Wat Pho Kao Ton, presented a sacred amulet to Mr. Chaiwut and Ajarn Jets, urging them to instill patriotism in the younger generation and praised Mr. Jetsada’s sword dance as a preservation of Thai art.
The annual ceremony serves to remember the sacrifices made by the villagers of Bang Rachan in fighting the Burmese, aiming to protect Thai land for future generations. It also honors the spirits of those who fought in past battles, dedicating merit for their peace in the afterlife.
Mr. Chaiwut emphasized that protecting Thai soil is the duty of all Thais, not just the military. He urged unity and patriotism, reminding attendees of the sacrifices made by the villagers of Bang Rachan, who, despite not being soldiers, fought to protect their land.
Mr. Chaiwut stated that although the context has changed, with global security issues still present, Thai people must remain united, echoing the spirit of Bang Rachan villagers. He emphasized the importance of instilling patriotism and unity in the youth, advocating for love of country as a duty for every Thai citizen.