Yasothon Province, Thailand – On May 21, 2023, amidst the vibrant atmosphere at the rocket launch base in Phaya Tan Park, Yasothon City Mayor, Mr. Natthaphon Naksuk, spearheaded a grand event that celebrated the age-old Bun Bang Fai tradition of Yasothon Province. The occasion was none other than the highly anticipated high-rise rocket launching competition, an annual extravaganza that sets the stage for the farming season.
The final day of this captivating event featured a riveting competition, where rockets ascended into the sky from both the temple’s elevated grounds and the esteemed rocket troupe in Yasothon Province. These rockets, infused with symbolism, were set ablaze to send a crucial message to Phaya Tan, the revered deity of fertility, urging him to grant bountiful rains and enable successful rice cultivation. This long-standing belief and practice have endured through the ages, and this year’s competition promised a staggering display of 380,000 rockets lighting up the sky.
Spread across two bases, the rocket launchers ignited their creations, with the third and fourth bases serving as launch points. From the momentous start at 8:30 a.m., rockets were launched intermittently until 5:00 p.m., creating a breathtaking spectacle that enthralled both locals and visitors alike. Adding to the spectacle, a variety of elaborate and eye-catching rockets were specially designed to captivate the Thai and foreign tourists throughout the day.
The event held profound cultural significance for the people of Yasothon Province, as it embodied their deep-rooted connection to agriculture and the vital role it plays in their lives. The Bun Bang Fai tradition serves as a unifying force that brings together communities, highlighting the shared values and aspirations of the local population.
Mayor Natthaphon Naksuk, beaming with pride, emphasized the importance of preserving and celebrating Yasothon’s rich cultural heritage. He expressed his gratitude to the participants, organizers, and spectators, whose collective efforts made the event a resounding success. The rocket launching competition not only showcased the province’s vibrant traditions but also drew attention to its natural beauty, reinforcing Yasothon’s position as a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
As the sun set on this extraordinary day, the sky continued to twinkle with the remnants of the awe-inspiring rockets. The echoes of the event would resonate within the hearts of the Yasothon community, serving as a reminder of their ancestral ties to the land and their enduring spirit in the face of change.
