Criminal Court denies bail to three of Thailand’s key protest leaders

13 Sept 04:27 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Criminal Court rejected bail applications for three prominent anti-government protest leaders, affirming an earlier decision to hold them on remand.
Parit Chivarak, Panupong Jardnok, and Panasaya Sitthijirawattanakul face charges of inciting public unrest stemming from protests at Thammasat University and Sanam Luang in September, which involved placing a replica Khana Ratsadon plaque at an archaeological site.

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.