Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Community

Monastic Circles – Viewing Sacred Amulets from Luang Pu La and Luang Por Phra

Collectors prize rare Buddhist amulets from revered monks including Luang Por Saeng's 1979 coins and Luang Por Phra's oil-based Buddhas blessed over nine years, with values tied to their spiritual authenticity and scarcity.

2h ago Khaosod

The article features detailed information about collectible Buddhist amulets from several renowned monks. Luang Por Saeng Thammaro's first edition coins from 1979 are particularly rare, featuring an oval metal design with glasses and sacred yantra symbols on the back. Luang Por Durian Thitheesaro's 70-year longevity celebration amulets from Wat Laksanarama in Phetchburi are made of darkened copper with half-length figures and merit-making inscriptions. In 2007, Luang Por Phra Attasanto from Wat Khok Dok Mai in Chainat created 1,000 oil-based Buddha amulets following traditional recipes, which were blessed individually over nine years. Luang Pu La Kesaro from Wat Dong Kwang in Uthai Thani commissioned pressed coins in 1963 made of alpaca and brass-silver plated materials to fund temple renovations, featuring a meditation figure and sacred yantra designs that remain valuable collector's items.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
Community

Breaking News: Buddhist Amulet - Reverse Buddha Medal B.E. 2488 Luang Por Rung Wat Takrabbue

Luang Por Rung Tissaro, a revered abbot of Wat Takrabbue in Samut Sakhon Province, was renowned for his strict practice, meditation mastery, and creation of sacred amulets during a monastic career spanning decades. The 1945 amulet reverse B

2h ago Khaosod

Luang Por Rung Tissaro, also known as Phra Phairojn Wuttacharya of Wat Takrabbue in Bang Yang District, Krathumbaen, Samut Sakhon Province, was a highly revered Buddhist abbot born on the eighth day of the ninth lunar month, B.E. 2416 in Nong Nok Khai District, Krathumbaen, Samut Sakhon. As a youth, he studied Thai and Khmer languages along with Pali scriptures and monastic disciplines under Phra Upachaya Thap, abbot of Wat Noi Nop Khun in Bangkok.

He was ordained on May 5, B.E. 2437, receiving the monastic name Tissaro. Just two days after his ordination, he moved to Wat Takrabbue, which at that time was functioning as a monastery. He subsequently studied Buddhist teachings under various masters and traveled to northern Thailand, occasionally venturing into Burma. He devoted himself to studying both conventional discipline and meditation practices under renowned teachers such as Phra Ajarn Kaerd of Wat Kamphaeng in Samut Sakhon and Phra Ajarn Lham of Wat Ang Thong in Samut Sakhon. He is said to have been a dharma companion with Luang Por Chey of Wat Tho Khwai in Singburi, exchanging knowledge with him.

When the previous monastery administrator departed, Luang Por Rung assumed the position of monastery leader. Later, when the monastery was elevated to full temple status as Wat Takrabbue, he devoted himself with unwavering commitment to developing it into a major temple in Samut Sakhon Province. Originally established in B.E. 2430 as a simple monastery adjacent to the Tha Chin River, it was initially called Wat Tho Khwai because it served as a landing place where buffalo came to drink water, before being renamed Wat Takrabbue.

Luang Por Rung was consistently devoted to seeking knowledge and practiced intensive meditation at Wat Suntaraprasit, developing profound understanding of meditation practices that granted him considerable spiritual power. He became renowned for creating sacred amulets and talismans.

In his conduct of precepts, he was a monk of strict moral virtue and compassionate nature, practicing modesty and humility, maintaining a one-meal-a-day practice throughout his life. He established educational institutions including a Buddhist studies hall for monks, novices, and local schoolchildren, as well as a community school.

In propagating the dharma, he regularly gave sermons instructing the Buddhist community and sent monks to teach those observing precepts on dharma days. He promoted meditation practice and mindfulness cultivation.

Administrative positions: B.E. 2442 - appointed abbot of Wat Takrabbue; B.E. 2474 - became an ordaining preceptor; B.E. 2482 - granted the ecclesiastical title Phra Kru Chao Phrathuan; B.E. 2483 - appointed district sangha leader for Krathumbaen District.

Ecclesiastical ranks: B.E. 2489 - elevated to Phra Kru Saññabat Chao II with the title Phra Kru Phairojn Mantakhom; B.E. 2494 - elevated to Phra Kru Saññabat Chao I; B.E. 2499 - elevated to Phra Ratchakhana Chao III with the title Phra Phairojn Wuttacharya.

He passed away on Friday, September 27, B.E. 2500 at the age of 85, after 64 years as a monk. His funeral was held on March 30, B.E. 2501.

He created many auspicious objects and relics for various occasions and participated regularly in important Buddhist ceremonies. His most sought-after creations include sacred cords (takrut), tiger amulets (seua yantra), yantra cloth, yantra flags, tiger forehead leather talismans, protection rings, and sacred beads. His amulets became popular among multiple generations, particularly his medals.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Community

Diverse Rural Technologies – A New Strategy for 'Selling Rice' Creating Content to Penetrate Online Markets

A rice farmer from Surin Province uses online content creation and personal branding to sell quality rice directly to consumers nationwide, proving that combining traditional agriculture with modern digital marketing can create a sustainabl

2h ago Khaosod

As rice prices fluctuate and production costs soar amid persistent uncertainty, Thai farmers' survival today no longer depends solely on physical labor or experience. Instead, they must adapt, understand the market, and keep pace with a rapidly changing world. While some families give up and others persevere, many choose to shift their mindset to move their lives and farms forward.

One example of modern Thai farmers is Ova-Thanawat Jannimm, a farmer's child from Surin Province who once tried to escape rural life for a corporate job in the city, before returning home and using the online world to transform traditional rice-selling methods into a sustainable market.

Ova grew up in a farming family in a rural province. Fields and agricultural life were familiar from childhood, but they also represented hardship and instability, prompting him to leave home. After graduating from Thammasat University's Faculty of Social Administration, he pursued a corporate career in a major city, living the urban dream for over a decade like many young people.

But over time, city life lost its appeal. Then COVID-19 struck, halting many people's lives. For Ova, however, it became a turning point to return home and recognize the potential of what lay before him. "It's something we know best, we can work with it all the time, and we could sustain it long-term," Ova said of farming, emphasizing that coming home wasn't a retreat but a new beginning.

Returning home revealed that skills from his non-agricultural career—market understanding, communication, and personal branding—could be applied to the family's traditional occupation. He started as an online rice seller, then expanded to collecting quality rice from community farmers to sell together, bringing rice that was once sold only locally directly to consumers nationwide.

As he matured, Ova's perspective on farming transformed. He came to understand that farming isn't just a profession but a root and identity. Returning to farming wasn't failure but choosing a sustainable path in an uncertain world.

Change wasn't easy, especially with his parents unfamiliar with the online world. Early online rice sales were filled with misunderstanding and worry. Ova chose to prove it through action—gradually experimenting, reducing risk, and demonstrating that adaptation is survival. If they don't change today, they may survive, but tomorrow offers no guarantee.

During COVID-19 when people stayed home, the online world became the primary space for living. Ova created content showing farming life in approachable, entertaining, and relatable ways through his unique identity as a transgender rice seller, with distinctive clothing, personality, and storytelling.

This content doesn't sell directly but rather sincerity, happiness, and stories behind every grain of rice—about 60 percent entertainment and 40 percent product presentation. When viewers feel connected, transactions happen naturally, Ova said.

Ova emphasizes telling the story of his family's and community's organic rice, from production processes to community cooperation activities, giving rice deeper meaning.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Pure Sculptural Elegance! Nychaa Makes Stunning Cannes Red Carpet Debut, Flawless Waistline and Presence Absolutely Elevated

Thai actress Nychaa made her Cannes Film Festival debut in a custom white haute couture gown, delivering a minimalist look that earned praise for its elegant design and her commanding presence on the red carpet.

2h ago Khaosod

Thai actress Nychaa made waves at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival red carpet with a striking appearance in a custom white haute couture gown by Bent Kahina. The minimalist design featured an elegant high slit and strategic cutout detailing at the waist, emphasizing refined lines and contemporary elegance without relying on ornate embellishments. Known as L'Oréal Paris brand ambassador, Nychaa brought a "Sculpted Silent" aesthetic to the event, showcasing understated luxury and the quiet confidence of modern femininity. Photographers and media outlets captured candid images through Getty Images, with fans and international media praising her flawless complexion and impeccable poise. The look sparked online discussions comparing minimalist sophistication with traditional glamorous styles, with fans celebrating her cultural representation on the international stage.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Chanchhai Submits Statement to Constitutional Court: Election Commission Admits Barcodes on Ballots Can Trace Voters

A former Democratic Party candidate submitted evidence to Thailand's Constitutional Court challenging whether barcoded ballots violate voting secrecy, claiming the Election Commission admitted the codes can trace individual voters.

2h ago Khaosod

On May 20, 2569, at the Constitutional Court office, Chanchhai Isara Sena Rak, former parliamentary candidate from Bangkok Noi of the Democratic Party, submitted a witness statement on behalf of the Ombudsman in a case challenging whether the Election Commission's printing of ballots with QR codes and barcodes violates the constitution's secrecy of voting requirement.

Chanchhai stated that the court requested clarification on five key points, including what actions he witnessed regarding barcode use on election day and how he could prove that barcodes compromise ballot secrecy. He submitted additional documents with his statement.

In his clarification, Chanchhai noted he observed barcodes on ballots from election day itself, which he found irregular. He emphasized that in his examination of election fraud cases since 2551, he had never seen barcodes on ballots before, making this evidence significant. Notably, he highlighted that the Election Commission admitted to the Ombudsman that ballots can be scanned to trace individual voters, which he argues confirms ballots are not truly secret.

Chanchhai requested the court call former Election Commissioners, including Somchai Srisuthiyakorn, to testify as witnesses and demonstrate whether scanning ballots can identify individual voters. He submitted sample documents previously obtained from the Election Commission and cited court judgments.

He also pointed out that the Election Commission's own procurement Terms of Reference (TOR) prohibited contractors from producing scannable ballots capable of being photocopied. Since ballots were actually scanned to identify voters during the election, this contradicts the TOR specifications, representing a procedural error by the Election Commission.

When asked whether the Election Commission explained to the Ombudsman how ballot scanning could trace voters, Chanchhai noted the Commission acknowledged using scanning to prevent fraud, citing legal authority. However, he argued this reasoning is flawed, comparing it to having laws against vote-buying that cannot actually prevent such violations. He referenced a previous court case where he obtained all ballots—both used and unused—making it immediately clear who voted for whom.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Behind the Scenes - Director Fuse Kittisak Reveals Secrets of the '4 Elements Baan Watin Wanich' Series

Director Fuse Kittisak unveils the creative vision behind '4 Elements Baan Watin Wanich,' a sapphic-themed anthology series on 7HD featuring four romantic stories with prominent Thai actresses, airing Saturdays at 8:30 PM.

2h ago Khaosod

Two episodes have already aired for the sapphic-themed series '4 Elements Baan Watin Wanich' on 7HD, produced by North Star Production. The first installment 'Vivah Pathom' stars Apple Lapisara and Mim Pandittha, followed by 'Ntee Roy Leh' featuring Ingfah Waraha and Charlotte Austin. The latest episode 'Senha Wayao' stars Freen Sarocha and Becky Rebecca, currently airing every Saturday at 8:30 PM on 7HD, with the final installment 'So Rak Akni' starring Namneung Milenya and Ney Kantheera.

Director Fuse Kittisak Chiwasatjassakul, who directed all four episodes, shared behind-the-scenes insights about the series. When asked about the genre, Fuse explained: 'Overall, it's a romantic-driven series about the stories of four women who are sisters with love, relationships, and deep bonds. No matter what problems each faces, they support and care for one another. It emphasizes love as the main theme, with added drama, action, and comedy in each installment.'

The first story, 'Vivah Pathom,' is a romantic drama about the love between Khun Din (Apple Lapisara) and Nong Rose (Mim Pandittha), a couple who harbored secret feelings for each other since childhood.

The second story, 'Ntee Roy Leh,' is romance-driven with action—emotional action rather than physical—interspersed with comedy. It follows the business rivalry between two hotel families: the hotel business of the family of Narm or Apo (Ingfah Waraha) and that of Chollada (Charlotte Austin), who is a young wife seeking her own identity and infiltrating the family to uncover secrets for her brother.

The third story, 'Senha Wayao,' is a romance-driven plot about a foreign princess and a Thai bodyguard who end up together. Princess Katherine, or Princess Blue (Becky Rebecca), comes to Thailand for diplomatic relations and requires a protector—Wayao or Lom (Freen Sarocha), a female police officer. An unexpected incident occurs when the princess is threatened, and criminals plan to harm the real princess and replace her with an impostor.

The final story, 'So Rak Akni,' is romance-driven with comedy as the lead. It's a very ordinary tale set in Southern Thailand featuring the character Fai (Namneung Milenya), a gang leader's child who goes by the name Noi, and Nong Kraprow (Ney Kantheera). These two characters have a shared history from childhood—Kraprow was brought to live in the same house as Fai, causing Fai to feel that Kraprow was stealing their father's love. After they reunite as adults, Fai attempts to improve their relationship, but because Fai views love as meaningless, he doesn't know how to reconcile with Kraprow. The story unfolds to reveal how they navigate this.

When asked about the appeal and challenges of creating this series, Fuse responded: 'I believe no Thai sapphic series has ever brought together eight renowned actors like this before. The challenge is figuring out how to keep audiences entertained and enjoying each individual story—what I call each house: Earth House, Water House, Wind House, and Fire House. The Earth House ('Vivah Pathom') features Apple and Mim as a new pairing. I had to make the first couple the opener, like opening the house. The difficulty with a new couple is they don't have an established fan base. What I achieved was making audiences love the characters and feel that the Earth House is worth watching and enjoyable, so they'd be ready to watch the other houses. I felt that the characters Din and Rose made viewers feel ready to open their hearts and accept them, and in the first story, we succeeded.'

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Agricultural Economics Bureau Recommends Fertilizer Use Based on Soil Analysis for Wet Season Rice to Cut Costs and Boost Profits While Supporting Low-Carbon Agriculture

Soil-analysis-based fertilizer application for wet season rice cuts farmer costs by 5.24 percent while boosting profits by 31 percent and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 7.8 percent, according to Thailand's Agricultural Economics Burea

2h ago Khaosod

Peeraphun Khortong, Secretary-General of the Office of Agricultural Economics (OAE), revealed that Thailand's agricultural sector must adapt to a low-carbon economy in response to climate change and increasingly stringent environmental trade requirements. The OAE conducted research on "incremental cost analysis for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in economic crop production (wet season rice)" to evaluate the economic viability of emissions reduction measures and support sustainable rice production policies using the BCG Economy Model.

The study, conducted by the OAE's agricultural economic offices 1-12, collected data from farmer interviews during the 2567/68 production year across 37 major rice-growing provinces nationwide. The sample consisted of 534 farmers total—267 conventional farmers and 267 using soil-analysis-based fertilization. Researchers employed marginal abatement cost (MAC) analysis to compare the economic value between both groups. The study found that wet season rice farmers face multiple pressures including rice price volatility and uncertainty, rice diseases and pests, climate conditions, drought, insufficient water, and rising production input costs, particularly expensive chemical fertilizers and seeds. Therefore, soil-analysis-based fertilizer application is an approach that addresses both cost reduction and increased production efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

Comparison between conventional and soil-analysis-based fertilizer users showed that soil analysis before fertilizer application helped farmers save an average of 145.62 baht per rai on fertilizer costs. Farmers using soil-analysis-based fertilization had total costs of 4,400.78 baht per rai, yields of 553.57 kilograms per rai, and returns of 6,105.88 baht per rai (based on wet season rice prices at 15% moisture averaging 11,030 baht per ton as of February-April 2568). They earned 1,705.10 baht profit per rai, or 3.08 baht per kilogram. Compared to conventional farmers, they had 5.24 percent lower costs, 3.41 percent higher yield per rai, and 31.06 percent higher profit per kilogram—demonstrating that this approach creates economic incentives for farmers to shift toward environmentally friendly production methods.

Regarding the environment, conventional farmers emitted an average of 854.64 kgCO₂e per rai in greenhouse gases, while soil-analysis-based farmers emitted only 787.98 kgCO₂e per rai—a reduction of 66.66 kgCO₂e per rai or 7.80 percent. Examining chemical fertilizer use, urea application produces carbon dioxide emissions; conventional farmers emitted an average of 12.68 kgCO₂e per rai compared to only 7.41 kgCO₂e per rai for soil-analysis-based farmers—41.56 percent lower. Nitrogen fertilizer use affects nitrous oxide emissions, with conventional farmers emitting 52.07 kgCO₂e per rai versus 33.20 kgCO₂e per rai for soil-analysis-based farmers—a reduction of 18.87 kgCO₂e per rai or 36.24 percent—because this approach selects fertilizer formulas and quantities that match crop requirements. From an environmental economics perspective, soil analysis before fertilizer application demonstrates cost-effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Community

Fresh Voices from Youth – Sob Moei Children Protect the Salween River

Over 200 youth and villagers marched in Sob Moei District to protect the Salween River from dams, mining, and toxic contamination that has sickened fish and threatened community livelihoods.

2h ago Khaosod

Recently, the Rivers and Rights Foundation and networks of communities in the Yuam, Ing, Moei, and Salween river basins, along with Sob Moei villagers and civil society organizations, jointly organized an 'International Day of Action for Rivers.' Over 200 children, youth, villagers, and Salween River advocates participated in a march to protect the river at Sob Moei village, Sob Moei District, Mae Hong Son Province.

Students carried protest signs with messages including 'No dams for life,' 'Protect the river from toxins,' and 'No mining in the peaceful Salween watershed.' Karen elders performed traditional rituals, lit candles in prayer for river protection, and released bamboo rafts bearing community rights banners.

Youth and community representatives issued a statement on behalf of the next generation, who face impacts from state and corporate development projects including dam construction, mining operations, and large-scale water resource development. They highlighted toxic contamination in rivers like the Salween, where testing has revealed pesticides, cadmium, and heavy metals in water sources. These toxins have visibly damaged ecosystems and community livelihoods—causing fish diseases, affecting fishing practices, and threatening riverside crops—along with health concerns. While relevant agencies conduct monitoring, test results are not clearly communicated back to communities, leaving residents without adequate information for decision-making. The situation also affects local economies, with many communities still lacking access to basic services such as clean drinking water.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Tray Scott Deeply Grateful for Global Support During Difficult Times, Finding New Hope

Tray Scott thanked global supporters in an Instagram video for encouraging messages during what he described as an extremely challenging period while pursuing justice. The expat expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from Thailand

2h ago Khaosod

After navigating through many difficult experiences, Tray Scott has courageously stepped forward to pursue justice, buoyed by overwhelming support from both Thailand and abroad. On May 20, he posted a video on his personal Instagram account, expressing heartfelt thanks to followers and people around the world who sent encouraging messages over the past several weeks. In the video, Tray appeared deeply moved, describing it as a significant and meaningful week for him, while acknowledging it has also been an extremely challenging period.

Tray stated: "I simply want to thank everyone who has sent me encouraging messages from every corner of the world over the past few weeks. It has been a very difficult time for me, but all of you have given me much greater hope."

While Tray hopes everything will improve going forward, he acknowledged uncertainty about what the future holds. However, he felt compelled to express his gratitude without further delay, emphasizing his hope that circumstances will develop in a positive direction.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

CIB and FDA Bust Illegal Whitening Serum Operation Disguised as Cosmetics but Injected into Bodies

Thai authorities seized over 35,600 illegal whitening serum units worth 22 million baht after discovering a beauty operation was injecting cosmetics falsely registered as drugs into customers' bodies. The product owner faces multiple charge

2h ago Khaosod

On May 20, 2025, Police Lieutenant General Nattasak Chaowarasat, Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, ordered Police Colonel Kongkriche Lersithikul, head of the Criminal Investigation Bureau, and Police Major General Veeraphong Klaaitong, deputy commander of the CIB's Division 4, to join the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in conducting raids on beauty clinics and storage facilities in Bangkok. Authorities seized 35,645 units of illegal cosmetic products, unregistered drugs, and medical devices valued at approximately 22 million baht from three locations: a beauty clinic on Kalpapruek Road in Bang Bon District, a storage facility in Nuaminthra Soi 111 in Bueng Kum District, and a residential import and distribution point in Bang Ramat, Talat Noi District.

The operation stemmed from public complaints and FDA referrals regarding a cosmetic brand being misused by mixing saline solution and injecting it into the body, with sales promoted through social media and beauty clinics. The investigation revealed that the product owner contracted a Thai manufacturer to produce glutathione but falsely registered it as a cosmetic product to avoid stricter drug registration requirements. The products were then sold to beauty clinics with claims they were imported glutathione drugs, when in fact they were being injected into customers' bodies for skin whitening treatments.

Investigators plan to charge the importer under the Cosmetics Act B.E. 2558 for importing cosmetics without Thai labeling, misrepresenting labels, incomplete required information, illegal importation, falsely registered products, and counterfeit cosmetics. The seller of unregistered fillers faces charges under the Medical Device Act B.E. 2551, while the seller of unregistered drugs faces charges under the Pharmaceutical Act B.E. 2510.

Pharmaceutical Secretary Supattra Bunserm stated that the offenders exploited the easier "cosmetic registration" process instead of drug registration, then falsely marketed and sold the products to beauty clinics as imported products or skin vitamins for injection. She warned that such misuse is extremely dangerous as products have not undergone safety assessments for injection and urged business operators to comply with the law. The FDA cautioned beauty clinics and hospitals to carefully verify labeling and usage of injectable products in ampule or vial form.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

WHAUP Partners with Soh Farm to Launch Solar Farm Supporting Clean Energy

WHAUP and Soh Farm are launching a 10 MW solar farm with battery storage across 65 rai in Lopburi Province, expected to save the farm over 21 million baht annually in energy costs starting in mid-2026.

3h ago Khaosod

WHAUP has partnered with Soh Farm to develop a solar power generation project and energy storage system spanning over 65 rai in Lopburi Province, supporting clean energy for industrial, agricultural, and food businesses. Akarin Prathuangsit, Chief Executive Officer of WHAUP (W.H.A. Utilities & Power Public Company Limited), announced that the company is advancing comprehensive renewable energy solutions across Thailand and Vietnam to meet rising clean energy demand in industrial sectors while supporting business partners' transition to decarbonization. The company has recently signed a contract with Soh Farm to install a 10 MW ground-mounted solar farm alongside a 20 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS), representing a significant project reflecting the trend toward clean energy adoption combined with smart energy management technology in industry. The installation is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026. Following this latest agreement, WHAUP's total solar power generation capacity for Soh Farm has increased to 56.47 MW, with a combined 20 MWh BESS system, reinforcing long-term cooperation between both organizations in deploying clean energy efficiently. "Integrating a solar farm with a BESS system is a crucial step in elevating renewable energy solutions from mere electricity generation to comprehensive energy management," Akarin stated. "This not only helps customers maximize solar energy efficiency but also strengthens energy stability, reduces electricity cost volatility, and increases energy flexibility for industrial users—essential factors in driving sustainable decarbonization." Jaruwan Chotthewanya, Head of International Marketing, Head of Accounting and Finance, and Board Secretary of Soh Farm, noted that the company continues to drive business operations alongside environmental goals under its Go Green initiative. "Our partnership with WHAUP represents another critical step in introducing clean energy innovation to support our operations and advance our Net Zero targets," Jaruwan stated. The project is expected to help Soh Farm reduce average annual energy costs by over 21 million baht, totaling more than 294 million baht throughout the contract period. Over the project's 30-year lifespan, energy cost savings could reach as high as 1.647 billion baht, marking a significant turning point in strengthening energy stability for businesses in Lopburi Province while enhancing competitiveness through tangible operational cost reductions.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
Loading more…
Endless reading Scroll to read. When you reach the bottom, keep scrolling. A bar fills, and the next story slides in when it's full.
↑ ↓ or Space