Royal blessing for Wat Suttharam: Important event for the Kathina festival!

Royal blessing for Wat Suttharam: Important event for the Kathina festival!

Significant celebrations took place at Wat Suttharam in Ban Aharn on November 1, 2025. Chaired by Khunying Pranee Unphrom, who represented King Rama X, robes, accessories and financial support were handed over to mark the Kathina ceremony. This happened in the monks' meeting house of the temple, considered a true pearl of the region and belonging to the Mahānikāya sect, one of the two main orders in Thai Buddhism.

Wat Suttharam, originally founded in 1728 under the name “Wat Aram”, has an eventful history. The temple was later named “Wat Aharn” and was finally renamed “Wat Suttharam” in 1941. With a land area of ​​7 rai, 2 ngan and 29 square wah, the temple provides ample space for its various buildings which include the Uposatha, the Sala Kan Parian, the monks' huts and the vihara. The temple's current abbot, Phra Khru Sangwornanathwisut, plays a central role in the spiritual community.

A long tradition

The temple was once built under the leadership of Phra Khru Barin, who built a simple bamboo hut with a thatched roof. Over the years, Wat Suttharam has been continually renovated and expanded. A crucial renovation took place in 1972, when the roof of the main building was covered with wooden shingles and windows were added. Two years later, the new Uposatha was completed, and in 1978 the temple received royal approval for inauguration.

Cultural relevance of the Mahānikāya

The Mahānikāya sect is central to Buddhism in Thailand. Over 90% of Buddhist monks in Thailand belong to this order, which is distinct from the Dhammayuttika Nikāya, founded in 1833. The Mahānikāya places great emphasis on the traditions and practices of Theravada Buddhism, which is also reflected in the celebrations at Wat Suttharam. This tradition is widespread not only in Thailand, but also in Cambodia and Laos, creating a deep cultural connection between these countries.

The presentation of robes and support for the Kathin ceremony demonstrates the temple's deep roots in local life and the continued importance of the Buddhist community in the region. The celebrations at Wat Suttharam are not only an opportunity for religious practice, but also strengthen the community and promote respectful exchange between the believers and the royal family.

For the residents of Ban Aharn and visitors to the temple, Wat Suttharam remains a place of spirituality, history and community. The temple, decorated with traditions developed over centuries, attracts many visitors and will certainly continue to play an important role in people's lives in the future.

You can find out more information about this profound celebration in the reports from Chiang Mai News and Nan PRD. A comprehensive overview of the Mahānikāya and its relevance can be found on Wikipedia.