The Roi Et governor is delighted by the viral attention.Dressed in a themeof the Vessantara Jataka for a meeting to prepare for "Boon Phawet 2026." He revealed the origin of dressing as Chuchok and aims to promote Roi Et as the "Capital of Boon Phawet Festivals" to the world.
Regarding the case on the globalonlinemedia, images circulated of the governor leading a government meeting in Roi Et dressed in a "Vessantara Jataka" theme preparing for the "Great Giving Merit Boon Phawet Festival" from 6–8 March, which became a viral topic widely discussed as previously reported.Dressed for a government meeting in Roi Et in the Vessantara Jataka theme preparing for Boon Phawet.)
This afternoon, 26 February 2026, Mr. Chatchawan Benjasiriwong, governor of Roi Et province, told the news team that initially he did not expect it to go viral, as his true intention was to publicize the Boon Phawet tradition of Roi Et province to the entire country and the world.
The governor said that all department heads were proud to be part of the "ancient story" by dressing as characters from the Vessantara Jataka, reflecting Roi Et's identity, which aims to become the "Capital of Boon Phawet Festivals."
Regarding why he did not dress as the city lord, the governor explained that originally there was a proposal to dress as the city lord, but the monastic community suggested dressing as "Chuchok," who received eight blessings.
However, this is not the stereotypical Chuchok who was greedily selfish to the point of death, but a modern Chuchok who understands sufficiency and giving. He symbolizes a leader who, having received opportunities, blessings, and resources, knows moderation and shares back with the people. The staff he holds is a symbol of support and leading good things to happen in Roi Et province.
The governor emphasized that the major goal in the next three years is to promote the Boon Phawet festival globally on a grand scale, clearly stating, "We will move forward together, and it will happen simultaneously." From a viral moment online, it has become a creative trend reflecting the use of cultural power to drive the city onto the world stage. Roi Et is not only about legends but is writing a new legend fueled by sufficiency and giving.
