Lottery enthusiasts are visiting a temple in Nakhon Pathom, central Thailand, seeking blessings from the revered Thao Wessuwan.
On August 27, a steady stream of worshippers arrived at Wat Klang Bang Phra in the Bang Phra subdistrict, participating in merit-making activities and paying respects to the temple’s sacred figures. While Luang Phor Somwang is highly respected, it is the historic Thao Wessuwan statue that attracts the most devotees, especially those hoping for a touch of luck.
Originally crafted from cement during the era of the late monk Luang Phor Phut, the Thao Wessuwan statue has been carefully restored and repainted, retaining its striking appearance. Worshippers often adorn it with red cloths, incense, candles, and roses as part of their rituals.
Every day, visitors participate in a range of traditional rituals, including offering red cloth talismans and roses, lighting incense, and tying their offerings to the deity’s staff. Many also make a wish before drawing a numbered egg from a jar, hoping it will bring them luck.
Some devotees take part in the colourful fortune incense ritual, lighting sticks in colors corresponding to the days of the week: red, yellow, pink, green, orange, blue, and purple.
Among those seeking blessings was 50-year-old Siri Porn, who tied a red cloth to Thao Wessuwan’s staff and made her wishes. She drew the numbers 4, 2, and 6 from the jar, then lit a red fortune incense stick, which revealed 7, 7, and 8, according to KhaoSod.
Confident that the numbers might bring her luck, Siri Porn expressed devotion not only to Luang Phor Somwang but also to Thao Wessuwan, particularly with the upcoming lottery draw.
“If these numbers prove lucky, I will return with red soda and roses as a token of gratitude. I have been fortunate here before, and I believe the temple holds special power,” she said.
The strong personal connection many locals feel toward the temple—especially through red offerings—reflects the community’s faith in Thao Wessuwan’s ability to bring good fortune. Whether it’s through lottery wins or business success, Wat Klang Bang Phra remains a beacon of hope and devotion.
