Tac Paranayu delivers a strong and clear statement in his usual style. "Tac Paranayu Rojanawutthitham" He recently gave an interview about the hot controversy in the monastic community involving Phutthaisawan Temple and scandals of senior monks. He admitted he was not surprised by the news because he had known about the behavior and financial irregularities since before the COVID-19 pandemic and decided to stop visiting the temple after Luang Pu Whon passed away.
Asked about the issue regarding Phutthaisawan Temple?
"Now it feels like all the sycophants are gone. I see many people visiting the temple again, whereas before there were few visitors, but now it's crowded."
Regarding the claim that some disciples are mafia?
"People in Ayutthaya know that when you go there, there are some arrogant individuals controlling things, especially inside. I understand the temple has dogs, but they are very fierce. When released, they chase away those who come to make merit. I have known this for a long time. If I had told anyone back then, no one would have believed me. They let it happen and rise, but when they fall, they get hurt."
How did you feel upon hearing the news?
"Indifferent, not surprised at all. It was bound to happen. I haven't been there since Luang Pu Whon passed away, and I never set foot there again."
Have you ever been threatened?
"No threats at all."
Why do you seem happy today?
"I'm happy. When misfortunes leave a temple, there must be happiness."
Did you know about these issues before Luang Pu Whon passed?
"Yes, I knew well. I knew about the money coming in and out when Luang Pu was ill. There were factions: some trying to develop the temple, and since Luang Pu was sick and then passed away, this new abbot had to take over. I knew about this even before COVID."
What do you think about the authenticity of the sacred objects?
"They are fake. For me, they're counterfeit. I think they're just ordinary. Some are made very expensively, so why worship such costly items? Usually, when we go to temples, they give one sacred object each. These are not to be worshiped at such a high price. If worship is that expensive, where does the money go? What restoration has been done? Since Luang Pu Whon passed, no restoration has been visible. The crematorium built for public funerals is kept unused, just storage. I haven't even talked about who is allowed in the meditation area or who has been brought there."
Were you suspicious about improper relationships (sika) before?
"There were some signs. After 10 p.m., vans would go in and out. So, yes, there was something going on."
How do you feel about the clip shown on the table?
"Oh, I understand. I understand their way of life and context. Monks are human too. Oops! Sorry."
Regarding claims that although over 60, the monk must be led by disciples when walking, yet he seems very strong when doing other things?
"Oh, that’s fake. You saw it, right? Wow, slurping noodles like that. When outside, he acts composed, but inside his quarters, he can be playful. We all have a side like that."
Anything you want to say to them?
"Well... everyone will face their own karma."
Do you think the evidence police have matches your suspicions?
"Is it all? I don’t think so. I believe there’s much more because remember, they create many sacred objects, and many senior figures are involved, as we have seen."
Regarding the claim of paying tribute to senior monks?
"Is it that deep? I can’t confirm, but certainly, if someone does wrong, they will face consequences."
Is this the final case involving monks?
"There are more. Once the seniors reveal them, we youngsters will follow."
Are these cases similar?
"Yes, mostly about inappropriate relationships, money, gold, money laundering—there aren’t many types."
Why do you think these people can stay in power?
"Some people have faith in them and do various things for that reason, but not me."
In your view, how should one choose which monks to have faith in?
"Personally, when I make merit, I go to Don Jan Temple, which cares for children in Chiang Mai. The money donated is used to buy food for them. I posted about it on Facebook, and I’m assured the money goes where it should. Also, if you want to donate, do so at Siriraj Hospital—it’s more transparent, and the funds are used for real merit projects, especially as many people pass away. Or donate to buy food for dogs and cats—that’s my recommendation."
What about faith in temples?
"You can enter temples because temples aren’t wrong—people are. Don’t lose faith in temples."
Nowadays, what kind of monks do you feel comfortable worshiping?
"I am close to only a few monks. I call to ask if there is any news so I can prepare myself—I’m afraid of shock. I’m close to Luang Pi Liang in Ayutthaya. I ask if he is clear of issues, and he is. I speak boldly because I’m his disciple. If anything happens, I can release amulets or items I have worshiped before."
Are you worried about Luang Pi Liang?
"No, no. Otherwise, the price would drop. Just kidding. He is good and kind."
How do you feel about news that photos with certain people cause controversies?
"It’s their fate. When I meet seniors, I take photos with them. Sometimes the timing coincides with news, so people post those photos. Everyone in the industry knows each other. We have photos of many people on our phones—from journalists to wedding guests."
Do many people still dare to take photos with you?
"Yes, even a senior executive just took one and posted it on social media. I was surprised why this is happening to everyone. Believe it."
Any message to those in the industry who are afraid?
"I want to say don’t be afraid. All actors on my show pay respect to monks properly when I invite them."
Asked about the issue between Jenny and Doctor?
"At first, I was a mediator, but now they’ve made me a middle finger. I’m caught between both sides. I said if anyone is specifically mentioned, they should clear it up themselves. I’m just the messenger."
What does Doctor say?
"Doctor says he didn’t name anyone. I wonder why I think of that person and they played a song—just stirring things up. I don’t know about the other side; I haven’t posted or seen their posts. That side is aggressive. My mother even scolds them. But if it’s true, they should settle it themselves. I’m not involved."
So you have chosen a side?
"Of course. I side with whoever has more followers. I can’t be neutral; the mediator gets the middle finger."
So are you a mediator or an instigator?
"I’m an instigator. I like stirring the pot. Whoever accepts it, accepts it."
If legal issues arise, will you mediate?
"I’ll wait until they name names because they say they don’t. But everyone can interpret and search on their own. We’ll see what happens."
Will there be a live session with Doctor?
"Yes, a live sales broadcast."
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