In the midst of Thailand’s vibrant Songkran festival, a time of renewal and reverence, a disturbing incident has sparked widespread outrage across the nation. A video circulating on social media shows two young boys behaving disrespectfully toward a statue of Luang Por To, a highly revered monk from the reigns of King Rama IV and V, during celebrations in Pathum Thani, just north of Bangkok. The incident, which took place on Monday near the Sapan Daeng Bridge in Khlong 1, Tambon Prachatipat, Thanyaburi district, has ignited a fierce debate about cultural respect and the role of upbringing in preserving traditional values.

A Shocking Display During Songkran

The controversy began when a Facebook user, under the account name Nes Nes, shared a TikTok clip on the page “News for Rangsit Residents.” The footage captures two boys, estimated to be around 11 or 12 years old, dancing near the statue of Luang Por To, formally known as Somdej Phra Phuttacharn To Promrangsi. One boy is seen rubbing white powder on the statue’s face, a gesture typically associated with reverence when done respectfully, while the other dances on the platform where the statue—depicted in a meditative posture—stands, casually rubbing the statue’s head with his left hand.

For many Thais, the actions were not just playful mischief but a profound insult to a figure deeply embedded in Buddhist tradition. Luang Por To is celebrated for his spiritual teachings and contributions during the 19th century, and statues of revered monks like him are often central to Songkran rituals, where devotees pour water or apply powder as acts of merit-making. The boys’ behavior, perceived as treating the monk’s image like a peer rather than a sacred symbol, struck a nerve in a country where respect for religious figures is a cornerstone of cultural identity.

The video quickly went viral, amassing nearly 200 comments by Tuesday afternoon. Social media users expressed anger and disappointment, with many condemning the boys for their lack of respect. Comments also turned critical of the boys’ families, with some users questioning how such behavior could occur without a failure in teaching proper values and manners at home. “This is heartbreaking to see” wrote one user on Facebook, echoing a sentiment shared by many who viewed the clip.

Local residents in Pathum Thani, where the incident occurred, shared similar feelings of sadness and frustration. Some recognized the boys as children from the neighborhood and expressed dismay at witnessing such disregard for a sacred figure during a festival meant to honor tradition. “We know these kids, and it’s disheartening to see them act this way” said a local shopkeeper who wished to remain anonymous. The sense of community betrayal was palpable, as residents grappled with the implications of the incident on their town’s reputation during one of Thailand’s most cherished holidays.

Authorities Respond to Maintain Order

In response to the growing backlash, police were deployed to the celebration site on Tuesday to ensure order and prevent further incidents. By then, however, the two boys were reportedly no longer at the location. Meanwhile, the statue of Luang Por To, alongside those of four other revered monks, remained on display for Buddhists to perform traditional rituals. Observers noted a marked change in atmosphere, with no one seen dancing near the statues on Tuesday, a stark contrast to the festive energy of the previous day.

The swift response from authorities highlights the sensitivity of the issue in a country where cultural and religious respect often intersects with public order. While no arrests or formal charges have been reported at this stage, the incident has prompted discussions about how to balance the exuberance of Songkran—known for its water fights and lively celebrations—with the preservation of sacred spaces and symbols.

Cultural Context and Broader Implications

Songkran, celebrated annually from April 13 to 15, marks the traditional Thai New Year and is deeply rooted in Buddhist practices of purification and renewal. It is a time when families come together to pay respects to elders and religious figures, often visiting temples or participating in community events like those in Pathum Thani. The festival’s blend of spirituality and festivity makes incidents like this particularly jarring, as they clash with the holiday’s core values.

The statue incident also raises broader questions about generational shifts in attitudes toward tradition in Thailand. While the country has modernized rapidly in recent decades, reverence for Buddhist monks and cultural heritage remains a unifying force. Some observers suggest that the boys’ actions may reflect a lack of understanding rather than intentional disrespect, pointing to the need for better education on cultural norms among younger generations. Others, however, see it as a symptom of declining parental guidance in an era of social media and globalized influences.

A Community Reflects on Respect and Responsibility

As the dust settles on this controversy, the Pathum Thani community and the wider Thai public are left to reflect on what this incident means for the future of cultural respect during national celebrations. While the boys’ identities remain undisclosed, and no formal action has been confirmed, the emotional impact on locals and online observers is undeniable. For many, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between youthful exuberance and the preservation of deeply held values.

In the days ahead, as Songkran celebrations continue across Thailand, the hope is that this moment will spark constructive dialogue rather than lasting division. Whether through community outreach, educational initiatives, or simply conversations at home, the incident near Sapan Daeng Bridge may yet inspire a renewed commitment to honoring the traditions that define Thai identity.