Traditional Thai massage get UNESCO heritage status

13 Sept 12:25 Key points summarised by AI

Traditional Thai massage, known as Nuad Thai, has been officially added to UNESCO's prestigious Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
This significant recognition is expected to elevate the practice's profile, promoting its preservation and global awareness, as highlighted by Thai delegates.
With ancient origins tracing back centuries and codified at Bangkok's Wat Pho temple, Nuad Thai has become a global phenomenon, with the Wat Pho school alone training over 200,000 therapists worldwide since 1962.
Beyond its cultural importance, Thai massage serves as a vital livelihood for thousands, offering an accessible profession that requires only skill and knowledge, while also providing proven health benefits for various ailments.

The Buddha Comes Home

Today 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.