"Bangkok Wakes to Rain" author talks about his famous novel on Sunday

15 Sept 08:49 Key points summarised by AI

Pitchaya Sudbanthad's novel, "Bangkok Wakes to Rain," intricately weaves Thailand's history, traditions, and political shifts through stories centered on a transforming Bangkok, from an old house to a future flooded high-rise.
The author will discuss his acclaimed book, recognized for its resistance against the city's amnesia and its preservation of memory, at the Open House Bookshop, Central Embassy, today from 3-5 pm.

The Buddha Comes Home

Yesterday 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is a vibrant annual festival of the Shan (Tai Yai) people in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, celebrating the Buddha's return from Tavatimsa heaven after Buddhist Lent.
The festival's centerpiece involves families constructing intricate miniature palaces, also called Chong Para, from bamboo, paper, and lights, placed outside homes and temples as offerings.
For three days and nights, the quiet mountain town comes alive with folk music, traditional dances like the Shan bird dance, religious ceremonies, and community gatherings, showcasing deep-rooted Shan culture.
Beyond the celebrations, Chong Para reinforces family bonds, preserves traditional crafts, and offers visitors an authentic immersion into the unique cultural heritage of Mae Hong Son.