Controversial former monk “Yantra” dies in California on Sunday

14 Sept 02:45 Key points summarised by AI

Controversial former Thai monk Yantra Amaro died at 73 in California, as announced by his Sunnataram monastery.
Expelled from the monkhood in 1994 over a sex scandal, he fled to the US to establish a monastery and avoid legal action, making low-profile visits to Thailand after charges expired.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.