A temple in Rayong province carried out an outdoor cremation after a 25-year-old man weighing 198kg could not be accommodated in a standard crematorium furnace, drawing attention to practical limits in funeral facilities.
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The ceremony took place on 3 May 2026 at Wat Nai Rai in tambon Phe, Mueang district. The deceased, identified as Chanathip, known as “Not”, died on 29 April 2026 from multiple underlying health conditions, according to reports.
Relatives and friends gathered for the funeral rites following several days of merit-making ceremonies. However, the temple was unable to place the body into the crematorium due to its size exceeding the capacity of the furnace.
As a result, officials and local residents arranged a traditional open-air cremation,“funeral pyre”, using firewood, charcoal and fuel. Screens were set up around the site to shield mourners from distressing scenes during the process.
The atmosphere at the ceremony was sombre, with family members visibly grieving as the rites were conducted in silence. The use of the pyre, once common in earlier times, is now rarely seen in modern Thailand, where crematoriums are widely used.
The case has highlighted limitations in existing cremation infrastructure when dealing with unusually large bodies. It has also prompted discussion among local communities about the need for adaptable facilities or alternative arrangements in such circumstances.
Temple staff and attendees worked together to ensure the ceremony was conducted respectfully, maintaining traditional practices while addressing the practical challenges. Those present described the event as both emotional and unusual due to the method required.
Daily News reported that authorities have not indicated any changes to regulations or facilities following the incident. For now, temples may continue to rely on traditional methods in exceptional cases where modern crematoriums cannot be used.

Picture courtesy of Daily News
Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 4 May 2026
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