Ancient Buddha Image Draws Crowds at Buriram Temple
Buriram residents have flocked to a long-sealed temple ordination hall in Thawarawadi district after discovering an ancient Buddha image believed to date to the late Ayutthaya period nearly 250 years ago. The bronze statue, now drawing crow
Residents of Buriram province have flocked to venerate an ancient Buddha image believed to be nearly 250 years old after a social media post sparked public interest on August 16. The image is housed at Sirisukaram Temple in Nong Prueah village, Thawarawadi district, which locals say has a long history. The ordination hall containing the Buddha image had been closed and unused for many years until villagers recently decided to clean and restore the surrounding area. Upon entering, they discovered the ancient Buddha image inside, which surprised many due to its age and condition. Local residents believe it may be a bronze Buddha dating to the late Ayutthaya period. Some villagers recall seeing the temple and image since childhood, with grandparents and parents having known it since birth, though the exact age cannot be determined. All residents hold deep reverence for the image, which they believe has been part of their community for a very long time. Local resident Srinual Jongkrajom, 44, explained that the temple once had a single monk, with villagers helping maintain it. When a new temple was built nearby, people began worshipping elsewhere, and when the original monk passed away, only an elderly monk remains. The ancient ordination hall was sealed for many years until residents collaborated to open it for cleaning, discovering the old Buddha image and attracting increased visitors. Preliminary assessment suggests the Buddha image may reflect late Ayutthaya artistic style, dating to Buddhist centuries 23-24 or approximately 2172-2310 BE, and if confirmed would represent a historically and culturally valuable artifact. However, the age and era remain speculative based on oral accounts and general appearance, and formal verification from archaeology experts and the Fine Arts Department is needed. Meanwhile, local residents continue caring for the ordination hall and Buddha image, welcoming visitors to pay respects and view this ancient work, hoping it will be preserved as a cultural heritage asset for the community.
