Heavy Rain Kills Sales at 20-Baht Curry Shop, Abbot Steps In to Buy 100 Bags for Community

Heavy rain from early morning left a 20-baht curry shop unable to make any sales, leaving about 100 bags unsold. When the local abbot learned of the situation, he purchased all 100 bags and had them distributed free to residents in the community. The vendor was touched by the gesture, which at least allowed her to recover enough to buy ingredients for the next day's sales.

On May 20, reporters received word that a 20-baht rice and curry shop in Pan Thong Subdistrict, Pan Thong District, Chachoengsao Province announced through loudspeaker that it was giving away 100 bags of curry for free. On-site inspection found numerous residents lining up to receive the free curry, which came in various menu options with no limits.

Ms. Nid, 42, the curry vendor, revealed that heavy rain since early morning prevented her from making any sales, leaving her with approximately 100 bags. Phrakhru Thawarasatthakun, abbot of Wat Woraphrot Sangkhavas Temple, learned of the heavy rain and called to ask if business was good. She replied that it wasn't at all and that she had about 100 bags left. The abbot then purchased all 100 bags and had his disciples post an announcement to distribute them to community members.

The abbot is known for his great compassion and this isn't the first time he's done this. Whenever it rains heavily in the morning, he calls to check on business. If sales are poor and there's excess inventory, he arranges for free distribution to the community. The vendor is grateful for his help, as it allows her to recover enough capital to buy ingredients for the next day's sales.

Her curry sells for only 20 baht per bag, with virtually no profit margin since she prices it so affordably. But she maintains this price to help support residents and factory workers who live hand to mouth.