A traditional offering ceremony at Ta Muen Thom Temple in Phanom Dong Rak district was held on 12 April at 07:30, marking the 23rd consecutive year of the annual “Visiting Ta Muen in April” event. The ceremony was presided over by Phatthana Phuengphon, chief of Phanom Dong Rak district, with local officials, military personnel and village leaders in attendance.
Due to continued border tensions and security concerns, this year’s ritual was significantly scaled down and held in a restricted format. Authorities did not allow public participation, with only relevant officials and security personnel permitted to attend, while soldiers were deployed to ensure safety throughout the ceremony.
The procession began at the entrance of the temple complex before moving to the main shrine area, where offerings were prepared and a Brahmin priest led the ritual according to long-standing tradition. Normally featuring more than 100 dancers in the ceremonial performance, this year’s ritual included only five dancers to shorten the programme.
The entire ceremony lasted about one hour and concluded at around 08:30, after which all participants left the site under tight security arrangements.