Phra Maha Thiranat, abbot of Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong in Korat affirmed he has no reason to be angry after an ecclesiastical investigation found no evidence of Vinaya violations. Devotees remain faithful, and tourists from Buriram have come by car to see for themselves.
Regarding complaints submitted anonymously accusing Phra Maha Thiranat Akkathiro, abbot of Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong or Wat Phra Boromthat Chedi Sri Phu Pha Soong in Sung Noen District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, the Thap Tham Lawyer Foundation, represented by lawyer Ananchai Chaiyadej, disclosed a reply letter from the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Office of Buddhism. The investigation committee of the Dhammayut order found that evidence was insufficient to confirm any violation of the Vinaya by Phra Maha Thiranat; therefore, no disciplinary punishment was decided. The foundation also stated it will pursue legal action to the fullest extent against any malicious complaints.
On 16 September 2026, reporters visited Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong in Makluea Mai Subdistrict, Sung Noen District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, to meet and interview Phra Maha Thiranat Akkathiro after the investigation results were announced. The atmosphere inside the temple remained normal. Phra Maha Thiranat was found chanting prayers with laypeople and mae chi (nuns) joining in. Meanwhile, visitors and tourists continued to come for merit-making, sightseeing, and photographing the temple as usual.
Phra Maha Thiranat Akkathiro, abbot of Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong, said the previous news was actually beneficial because it led to verification of whether a monk was genuine or fake. He noted that the media have the duty to report and verify facts about whether he committed any wrongdoing or was a suspect as reported. After investigation, the process must be respected. His monastic life continues as usual—chanting, walking meditation, sweeping the temple grounds, performing monastic duties, and assisting community activities such as funerals and cremations. He and the devotees have followed the news together, sometimes waking up to new reports daily, so he accepts that the situation is uncertain from day to day.
Regarding whether legal action would be taken against accusers, Phra Maha Thiranat said that is the responsibility of lawyer Ananchai Chaiyadej. He himself has no role in filing lawsuits. He reiterated the Buddhist teaching of not responding with anger or retaliation and practicing loving-kindness and forgiveness even toward those who hate us.
Phra Maha Thiranat stated he is always ready to forgive, not just now but even before any issue arose. He said it is pointless to be angry at tigers, elephants, dogs, cats, ants, or insects. Even toward those we dislike, we should not harbor anger but cultivate loving-kindness. Regarding allegations about temple finances, he explained that since he has been at the temple from 1994 to now, about 44 million baht related to operations and restoration have been used solely for renovating and developing the temple. Many devotees have personally donated materials such as sand, stone, and other supplies for temple construction and restoration.
On accusations or negative perceptions of him, Phra Maha Thiranat said the world always has people who see others positively and negatively; even family members have differing opinions. Therefore, such matters should not be made a major issue. He confirmed he will continue his spiritual practice and monastic duties as usual. Meanwhile, the atmosphere at Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong remains busy with devotees and tourists continuously coming to pay respects, make merit, chant, and admire the beauty of the site as normal.
Mr. Boonruem Kadpho, a 60-year-old tourist from Buriram Province who traveled to Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong, said he was aware of the news about Phra Maha Thiranat but was neither shocked nor did it change his faith in the monk. He said he still respects and trusts Phra Maha Thiranat as before, having visited the temple many times.
After seeing the news the previous night, he decided to visit the temple today to see for himself and intended to pay respects to Phra Maha Thiranat. He affirmed that he continues to respect and have faith in him and plans to keep making merit at the temple regularly.
Mr. Boonruem said, “I saw the news last night, so I took a van to come see the temple. Upon arrival, I planned to pay respects to the abbot. I still respect and have faith in him as before.” He also mentioned that he operates a van and organizes tours regularly bringing groups to Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong because he enjoys the temple’s atmosphere and scenery. The temple has beautiful spots for tourists, including chanting areas, various temple grounds, an underground chamber, and other attractions. He intends to continue bringing tour groups here as usual.
Overall, the atmosphere at Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong remains normal. Phra Maha Thiranat continues his monastic duties, chanting, and spiritual practice. The public and tourists keep visiting for merit-making and sightseeing amid ongoing interest in the recently released investigation results.
Reporters attempted to contact the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Office of Buddhism to obtain details about the investigation of Phra Maha Thiranat at Wat Pa Phu Pha Soong, but were told the director was on official business and other staff could not provide information on this matter.
