Cultural Misstep: Indian Tourists Climb Buddha Statue for Mangoes - video

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Photo courtesy of Naewna

 

A recent incident at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon in Ayutthaya, Thailand, has caused an uproar among the Buddhist community. It involved Indian tourists climbing a Buddha statue to pick mangoes, raising concerns about respect and behavior on sacred grounds.

 

A TikTok video, captured by user @viewyeahhh, shows an Indian woman, aged between 50 and 60, stepping on a Buddha statue's base to reach the fruit. Another woman was seen holding a bag of mangoes below. This action has led to widespread anger and highlighted the need for cultural awareness among tourists.

 

Reporters visited the site in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district and found numerous mango trees surrounding the sacred Chedi Chai Mongkhon area. The tree in the video was notably full of fruit, enticing the tourists.

 

Kanyavee, a 51-year-old visitor, expressed her disappointment, stressing the need for respect on temple grounds. She reiterated that while tourists are welcomed to take photos and participate in temple activities, they should avoid touching sacred objects.

 

 

Arunee, a 64-year-old temple staff member, speculated that the incident occurred during a busy holiday period. Although surprised when shown the video, she noted that the women were likely not part of a guided tour, as guides typically inform tourists about site etiquette.

 

The temple has signs instructing visitors on proper behavior and attire. Arunee suggested the mango-picking may have happened late in the day when fewer staff were present.

 

In response, temple officials plan to enhance monitoring to prevent similar incidents, ensuring respect and reverence are maintained on the temple grounds, reported The Thaiger.

 

 

-- 2025-03-04