Udon Thani —
At 4:00 PM on October 17th, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presided over the opening of the Naga Rocket Festival or Bun Bang Fai in Udon Thani.
During her speech, she praised the festival as one of Isaan’s most significant cultural traditions, noting its potential to reach a global audience through creativity and technology. She highlighted that the government is committed to promoting cultural festivals like Bun Bang Fai, which can generate economic opportunities for the Isaan region.
TPN Media notes this Naga Fireball version of the festival is different from the version that is famous in Yasothon and other provinces to start the rainy season earlier in the year.
Other notable Isaan festivals, such as the Candle Festival and the Lai Reua Fai Festival (Illuminated Boat Procession), were also considered valuable cultural assets.
Looking ahead, Thailand is gearing up for another major cultural event, the Loy Krathong Festival, which will take place nationwide on November 15th.This festival, celebrated by releasing decorated floats on water, symbolizes the cleansing of past misfortunes and the welcoming of good fortune for the year ahead, noted TPN.
Paetongtarn added that soft power initiatives are vital in attracting global attention to Thailand’s unique festivals, which will, in turn, enhance the local economy. She expressed her enthusiasm for further developing and promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage to international audiences.
Following her address, Paetongtarn led a religious ceremony, offering prayers and lighting incense for the Isaan Rocket Festival. Female cabinet ministers and Miss Universe 2023 runner-up Antonia Porsild participated in the ceremony, including flower offerings. After the formalities, Paetongtarn returned to Bangkok.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
