Thailand has introduced a 24-hour ban on alcohol sales in observance of Wan Org Pansa, marking the end of Buddhist Lent. This prohibition launched at midnight and lasts until midnight tonight. Wan Org Pansa, known as Pavarana Day, holds considerable significance in the Buddhist calendar.

 

The National Office of Buddhism explained that on this day, monks are free to leave their monastic retreats without breaching Buddha’s teachings. It's also seen as a time when monks offer one another constructive criticism, aiming to address minor issues within the community before they escalate.

For lay Buddhists, Wan Org Pansa is often observed through merit-making practices such as giving alms and listening to sermons. This aligns with long-held traditions integral to Buddhist culture.

 

The alcohol ban on Wan Org Pansa is one of five noted religious days on which alcohol sales are prohibited by a 2015 announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office. Violating this law could lead to a six-month prison sentence or a fine of up to 10,000 baht, approximately US$300. Thai police have issued reminders to ensure public awareness and adherence to these traditions.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-10-17

 

 

The restaurant near us is openly selling beer. People are sitting out drinking and having fun. 

Who enforces these laws?

9 minutes ago, petedk said:

The restaurant near us is openly selling beer. People are sitting out drinking and having fun. 

Who enforces these laws?

Are there many/any laws fully enforced?

Went to a local concert at a Wat this time last year. When it got going a table was set up for the organisers and local big wigs and out came the beers and regency. I pointed this out to the mrs who said no problem they buy it yesterday.

Don't  give a boomboom, right now I am in Langkawi where I get for THB 230 the wine I pay 570 in Thailand. 

 

I love Malaysia, it's people and their variety, more and more. If the Thais eff me with income tax I'll spend that amount enjoying this great nation six months a year.

Good idea, seems neither farangs nor Thai hold their liquor very well.

On 10/17/2024 at 12:05 PM, snoop1130 said:

 

...Thailand has introduced a 24-hour ban on alcohol sales in observance of Wan Org Pansa...

 

Wan Org Pansa[sic]. That's a new transliteration for what is otherwise known as Wan Ok Phansa.

 

Of course, there is no offical rule for the transliteration or romanisation of the Thai script, so I'm not complaining, just making an observation. Personally, I find wān ʔɔ̀ːk pʰān.sǎː rather cute.