Protest leader Mike Rayong remanded in custody after court denies him bail

13 Sept 05:18 Key points summarised by AI

The Criminal Court denied bail to protest leader Panupong Jardnok (Mike Rayong), remanding him for 12 days due to serious charges and concerns he might cause further unrest.
Jardnok faces charges of sedition and damaging state property for his alleged role in the September 19th protests, including installing a Khana Ratsadon plaque; other activists also faced related legal actions.

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.