Calendar: March 13 National Elephant Day in Thailand
The elephant (Chang) is a well-known symbol of Thailand and plays an important role in the history and culture of the country. In 1998, Thai authorities decided to formally recognize the animal's significance by designating March 13 as National Elephant Day.
On this day, various events take place in zoos and elephant parks across the country, with some parks treating their elephants to huge banquets of fruit and sugar cane. In some cases, Buddhist ceremonies will be held with the aim of bringing good luck to the elephant and its mahout.
Elephants in Buddhism
Images of elephants can be seen in many Thai temples. In Buddhist legend, it is believed that Queen Maya (mother of the Buddha) could only become pregnant after having a dream about a white elephant. This is why the white elephant has a mythical status and is seen as a sacred and royal animal. Buddhism in Thailand also contains elements of Hindu beliefs. Ganesh (the elephant-headed Hindu god) and Erawan (Indra's elephant mount) are often depicted in shrines and temples in Thailand.
The elephant as a national symbol
Visitors to Thailand will notice that there are many images of elephants on a range of everyday items ranging from street lights to souvenirs. Guests checking into some Thai hotels are greeted with a towel on the bed folded like an elephant. Restaurants and coffee shops in Thailand often have images of elephants on plates or cups.
The elephant was once on the national flag when the country was still known as Siam. A white elephant still appears on the flag of the Royal Thai Navy.
If you look at the outline of the map of Thailand, you can see the resemblance to an elephant with the 'ears' in the north and northeast and the 'trunk' curving south from Bangkok and extending towards Malaysia.
About this blogger
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Known as Khun Peter (62), lives alternately in Apeldoorn and Pattaya. In a relationship with Kanchana for 14 years. Not yet retired, have my own company, something with insurance. Crazy about animals, especially dogs and music.
Enough hobbies, but unfortunately little time: writing for Thailandblog, fitness, health and nutrition, shooting sports, chatting with friends and some other oddities.
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