A group of 70-year-old spiritual devotees gathered at Wat Sawang Arom in Nakhon Pathom to seek luck from "Grandpa Thong Ngiu Rai." They were not disappointed, receiving auspicious numbers to try their luck in the 16/11/26 lottery.
On 15 Nov 2026, reports stated that at Wat Sawang Arom, Kae Thae, Khun Kaeo Subdistrict, Nakhon Chai Si District, Nakhon Pathom, devotees continuously came to pay respects to the sacred Buddha image "Luang Pho Phra Ngern Phra Thong." Some visitors sought lucky numbers from objects they believed in, such as Grandpa Thong Ngiu Rai, Nong Kao 30 Million spirit child, Juk Dam spirit child, Elder Master, and Lord Hiran Phanasun—figures believed by gamblers to bring luck and fortune over many draws.
Especially the effigy "Grandpa Thong Ngiu Rai" which features a holy water basin containing drops of candle wax tears highly favored by gamblers. Many people crowd around to ask for luck and photograph the wax drops to interpret lucky numbers according to their beliefs.
When their numbers win, they offer items such as necklaces, bracelets, hats, glasses, and traditional Thai clothing, which is changed daily to dress the effigy, making it appear lifelike. The figure holds banknotes for devotees to exchange as lucky numbers. In front, there is also a basket containing numbered ping-pong balls and a wooden container for shaking fortune sticks, set up for divination.
Reporters met a group including Ms. Somjai, a 68-year-old gardener from Lopburi, and six others of similar age. They came to pay respects, raised their hands in greeting to Grandpa Thong Ngiu Rai at the assembly hall, each placing 100 baht into their fists while praying for luck, family happiness, success at work, and promotion in government positions. All took photos of the holy water basin and agreed that if they win, they would return together with offerings for Grandpa Thong Ngiu Rai.
Ms. Somjai revealed this was her first visit to Wat Sawang Arom. Everyone in the group was of similar age and wanted to see the famous effigy of Grandpa Thong Ngiu Rai known for bringing luck. Upon seeing it, they were surprised by how lifelike it was and felt joy as the figure smiled continuously. They felt their visit was worthwhile. Personally, she noted the numbers 339 and 192 as lucky, while others saw different numbers. Before leaving, the group unanimously promised to return with offerings if they received good fortune.
Luang Phra Khru Yatithammanuyut, also known as Luang Pho Pae, invited devotees to join the temple's major merit event, the annual Kathin Samakkhi ceremony, on 22 Nov 2026. The day will start with a procession around the village before offering the Kathin robes. At 1:00 p.m., the Kathin ceremony will take place, followed by the casting ceremony of the 39.6-inch brass Buddha statue, Phra Phuttho Klang, at 4:39 p.m. On the same day, 108 monks will chant Buddhist scriptures, accompanied by numerous revered monks meditating together. Sacred amulet coins of Phra Phuttho Klang will be distributed to all attendees. Everyone is invited to participate in this grand merit-making event.