Police set up road block prevent protesters marching to the Royal Plaza today

13 Sept 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

Police deployed extensive roadblocks, including buses, razor wire, and barriers, at Makkawan Rangsan Bridge and other key routes to prevent anti-establishment protesters from reaching the Royal Plaza.
Authorities issued strict warnings to protesters not to venture within a 150-meter radius of the Dusit Palace and advised motorists to avoid numerous major roads in central Bangkok.
The Free Youth Movement instructed its supporters to carry protective gear and materials for messages, awaiting a signal at the Democracy Monument for their planned march.
Approximately 9,000 police officers were deployed across the protest site and its surroundings to maintain peace, manage the demonstration, and prevent potential confrontations with royalist counter-protesters.
High-ranking army officials, including the Army Commander-in-Chief, are closely monitoring the protest from the Army Operations Centre.

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.