Nakhon phanom: The Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with its network partners, organized a series of activities to pay tribute to "The Queen Mother of Arts and Crafts" and to continue her royal initiatives in the arts and crafts sector at the Phalang Borom Wat That Prasit virtuous community in Nakhon Phanom Province.
According to Thai News Agency, the event took place at the virtuous community of Wat That Prasit, Na Wa District, Nakhon Phanom Province. Phra Ratchasiriwat, Abbot of Wat Sawang Suwannaram and Chief Monk of Nakhon Phanom Province, presided over the religious ceremony, while Ms. Sabida Thaiseth, Minister of Culture, presided over the secular ceremony. Attendees included Mr. Prasop Riangngern, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture; Mr. Chaiyapol Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs; Mr. Veera Rerkwanichkul, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Phanom Province; Ms. Suppapanee Pothisu, Secretary to the Minister of Culture; Ms. Petcharat Saithong, Chief Inspector of the Ministry of Culture; as well as representatives from government agencies, the private sector, the media, and the general public.
Ms. Sabida Thaiseth highlighted the event's purpose, which is to provide a platform for collective commemoration of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother's contributions to Thai handicrafts. Her efforts in promoting Thai handicrafts have been pivotal in creating jobs, generating income, and ensuring sustainable security for rural communities.
The event featured activities such as a memorial service, a parade titled "Heritage of 5 Ethnic Groups in Honor of Her Majesty the Queen Mother of Arts and Crafts," religious ceremonies, mourning dance performances, a fashion show featuring royal-inspired Thai costumes, and exhibitions honoring His Majesty. Additionally, the Royal Arts and Crafts Center and community products were showcased under the "Bovorn" moral development project, which aims to generate income and strengthen communities. The project also promotes cooperation among homes, temples, schools, and partner networks to instill morality and ethics, aligning with the Ministry of Culture's "Unseen Thai Thai" policy.
The Minister of Culture further noted that Nakhon Phanom Province, particularly Na Wa District, has historical ties to royal initiatives in arts and crafts. Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's visit to this temple in 1972 inspired the revival of traditional silk weaving, leading to the establishment of the first silk weaving group supported by the Foundation for the Promotion of Arts and Crafts. This group has since become a significant handicraft center in Thailand.
The event symbolizes a unified effort by the virtuous communities of the Buddhist Sangha to mourn the passing of His Majesty the King and to carry on royal aspirations in arts and crafts. It serves as a spiritual legacy and source of pride for the Thai people.