Buddhist Officials Demand Public Apology Over Fake Monk Video
Buddhist officials in Nakhon Ratchasima are demanding a public apology from those who dressed as monks in a viral video filmed at a pomelo festival, citing concerns about disrespect to Buddhism and the involvement of children.
The Office of Buddhism in Nakhon Ratchasima, led by Dr. Porpanna Saenkarun, has demanded that those responsible for a viral video showing two men dressed as monks come forward and apologize to society. The video, filmed at a pomelo festival in Song Noen district, Nakhon Ratchasima, showed the men standing near a performance stage holding alms bowls alongside a temple child while a female musical group performed on stage in revealing clothing, drawing criticism on social media over its appropriateness.
On September 3, Dr. Porpanna and Buddhist network partners submitted a letter to the Nakhon Ratchasima provincial deputy governor expressing public concern about the incident. The office stressed that those involved should take personal responsibility rather than allowing others to answer on their behalf. "Those who did this should step forward and apologize themselves. As men, they must show their faces and say sorry, not let the district officer take responsibility for them," Dr. Porpanna stated.
No criminal proceedings have been filed yet. The initial approach is to give those involved an opportunity to explain themselves and take responsibility. The matter will be forwarded to the provincial Buddhist Protection Committee for further consideration. Dr. Porpanna also expressed concern about long-term consequences, particularly regarding the use of monastic robes, alms bowls, and other Buddhist items in such activities, and the involvement of children who might view such behavior as normal. The office and Buddhist network partners emphasized they are not targeting anyone specifically but want clear accountability and prevention of similar incidents in the future.
