15-6-2023 (BANGKOK) In a truly unconventional celebration, an individual from Thailand, who struck it lucky by winning a lottery prize of 24 million Thai Baht (approximately S$926,000), organized a lavish feast at a local cemetery to express gratitude to the resident spirits. The event, featuring eight courses with desserts, beverages, and even an outdoor film screening, created a surreal and eerie atmosphere that sent shivers down the spine of onlookers.
It is not uncommon for lottery winners to find unique ways to show their appreciation after hitting the jackpot. In this case, a villager from Chumphon Province in Thailand received the extraordinary windfall and decided to follow a local tradition of hosting a grand banquet for the spirits at the Trai Khunnathan cemetery in Chumphon Province.
According to Thai Headline News, the custom dictates that villagers who make wishes and win the lottery should celebrate by organizing open-air movie screenings or various activities to commemorate their good fortune alongside their departed loved ones and friends in the spirit realm.
The organizing committee for the banquet, led by a person named Anan, revealed that they were entrusted with 240,000 Thai Baht (around S$9000), which accounted for 10% of the prize money. This generous sum was allocated to arrange a staggering 200 tables, with an estimated budget of 1,200 Thai Baht (S$46) per table, offering a delightful menu consisting of eight courses, including a sweet dessert.
“The lottery winner wanted to fulfill this local custom to express gratitude for their lottery win. Moreover, the fortunate individual expressed a willingness to share the food with fellow villagers, especially those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, encouraging them to take home leftovers,” explained Anan.
It is worth noting that a similar spectacle occurred last year when two women who won the lottery spent 300,000 Thai Baht (approximately S$11,500) to organize a feast at the Trai Virtuality cemetery in Chumphon Province. The event welcomed over 5,000 spirits resting in the cemetery, and not only was the cemetery transformed into a serene Japanese garden, but Japanese-style bento boxes were also prepared to cater to the otherworldly guests.
