Bangkok: The Ministry of Culture and the Prime Minister’s Office have announced preparations to invite and enshrine the Buddha’s tooth relic from China in Thailand from December 4, 2024, to February 14, 2025. This significant cultural and religious event will involve 24 processions and more than 2,700 participants, marking the occasion with a series of Buddhist activities and ceremonies at Sanam Luang.
According to Thai News Agency, Minister of Culture Ms. Sudawan Wangsupakitchkosol revealed that the invitation of the Buddha’s relics, specifically the Glass Tooth Relic from Lingguang Temple in Beijing, is in accordance with an agreement between the Thai government and the People’s Republic of China. The relic will be temporarily enshrined in Bangkok to honor His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary on July 28, 2024, as well as to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China in 2025. The public will have the opportunity to pay homage to the relic for a total
of 73 days at Sanam Luang before it is returned to China on February 15, 2025.
The Ministry of Culture has been tasked with constructing a pavilion building that combines Thai and Chinese architectural styles for the enshrinement of the relic. The event will include a procession starting from Military Airport 2, Wing 6, to Phlap Phla Maha Jessada Bodin Square, and then to Sanam Luang. The procession will feature participants from various organizations, including the Bureau of the Royal Household, the Royal Thai Armed Forces, the Royal Thai Police, Bangkok authorities, the 904 Volunteer School, and the Chinese Embassy, along with representatives of multiple religions and ethnic groups.
Ms. Sudawan also announced that a series of activities will be held during the enshrinement period, such as a Buddhist chanting ceremony on December 4, 2024, a New Year’s Eve prayer activity, a New Year’s Day alms-giving event, and celebrations for Chinese New Year and Makha Bucha Day. A final Buddhist chanting ceremony will t
ake place before the relic’s return to China.
The Ministry of Culture emphasizes that this event will further strengthen the cultural and religious ties between Thailand and China, highlighting the shared heritage and friendship between both nations. Buddhists from Thailand and China are invited to participate and pay homage to the relic, enhancing their spiritual lives and fostering cultural exchange.