Bangkok Bank celebrates 59 years of supporting Buddhism in Amnat Charoen

Bangkok Bank celebrates 59 years of supporting Buddhism in Amnat Charoen

On October 20, 2025, a large number of people gathered at Wat Samran Niwet, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Amnat Charoen Province, to attend the ceremonial presentation of the Royal Kathin 2025 by Bangkok Bank. This big festival attracts not only bank employees and customers, but also many committed citizens who know how to celebrate the identity of the Isan region. For the last 59 years, Bangkok Bank has supported Buddhism, demonstrating a good knack for social responsibility and cultural commitment. According to thaipr.net, a significant donation of 14,453,092.94 baht was made on this occasion for the preservation of Buddhist culture.

The ceremony was attended not only by Bangkok Bank Vice President Singh Tangtatswas and other bank executives, but also by the Abbot of Wat Samran Niwet, Phra Wichaimunee (Paitoon Mettajitto), who received the donation in a ceremonial Royal Kathin robe. Amnat Charoen Governor Mr. Anurat Thamprajumjit was also on hand to support the tradition, which was started in 1967 and has since served to strengthen the Buddhist religion in Thailand and preserve cultural values.

Wat Samran Niwet: A place of tradition

Wat Samran Niwet was founded in 1941 and is located in Bung Subdistrict, Mueang Amnat Charoen District, embedded in a beautiful forest landscape that is ideal for meditation practice. The temple is not only a religious place but also a cultural heritage of the region. Wat Samran Niwet is best known for its impressive statue of the monk Phra Sangkachai, which was erected in 1973. This ten-meter-tall figure is respected in Thailand for its religious devotion and serves as a model for renunciation and the path of the Buddha. You can find more information about this impressive temple at temple-thai.com.

The statue of Phra Sangkachai, which should not be confused with Buddha himself, is characterized by a shy, worried expression and is covered in ceramic tiles. Such depictions are not only found at Wat Samran Niwet, but are widespread in temples throughout Thailand. Another important area of ​​the temple is a pavilion with an austere Buddha statue surrounded by modern Buddha images, protectively framed by the Naga Mucalinda.

Buddhism in Thailand

Buddhism is crucial in Thailand and is practiced by approximately 94.6% of the population. The Theravada school in particular has had a significant impact on the religious landscape here. The development of Buddhism in Thailand dates back to the ancient Indian ruler Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. It dates back to 2000 BC and has evolved over the centuries through local customs and beliefs. Thai Buddhism integrates elements of popular religion and thus influences daily life and social cohesion in society. Further details on the history and traditions of Buddhism in Thailand can be found on Wikipedia.

The solemn ceremony at Wat Samran Niwet is not only a sign of religious commitment, but also a wonderful community celebration that honors traditions and strengthens togetherness in the region. The valuable preservation of Buddhist culture is not only achieved through financial means, but above all through being together and sharing cultural values. The Bangkok Bank shows that it is not only an economic company, but also an important cultural representative.