Culture
Commemoration Held for Somdet Phra Phutthachan (Kiao) at Wat Saket
A religious ceremony was held at Wat Saket in Bangkok to mark the 13th anniversary of the passing of the former abbot, Somdet Phra Phutthachan (Kiao Upaseno).
On August 10, 2026, a religious ceremony took place at Wat Saket Ratchaworamahawihan in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district of Bangkok to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the passing of Somdet Phra Phutthachan (Kiao Upaseno), the temple's former abbot. According to Khaosod Online, His Majesty the King graciously bestowed 299 sets of saffron robes (trai) to be offered to the monks participating in the chanting and merit-making rituals.
Air Vice Marshal Supichai Sunthornbura, Deputy Secretary-General of the Royal Household Bureau, presided over the ceremony as the lay representative. The monastic proceedings were led by Somdet Phra Thirayanmuni of Wat Debsirindrawas, alongside several other high-ranking senior monks, including Somdet Phra Phutthachan of Wat Traimit Witthayaram and Somdet Phra Mahathirachan of Wat Phra Chetuphon.
For residents and travelers, such events highlight the deep cultural and religious significance of Wat Saket, a prominent landmark in Bangkok. While the ceremony was a private religious observance, visitors to the temple area may occasionally encounter increased traffic or restricted access to specific halls during royal-sponsored merit-making activities. As this was a commemorative event, no further developments are expected. Travelers are encouraged to respect local customs and dress codes when visiting active religious sites in Thailand.