Elephant enjoys fruit buffet in Trang, Thailand
Some communities in Thailand domesticate elephants as working pets, kind of like how German Shepherds are often tasked with guarding the house. In order to give thanks for their service, locals hold a Tum Khwan Chang or “buffet for elephants”, where the gentle giants are given an endless supply of fruit.
On 25th April 2021, 93-year-old elephant owner, Mr. Hame Hamerat threw a Thum Kwan Chang for his seven elephants at home in Trang. At the feast, one of his elephants, 32-year-old Baitong lost her tooth – an event which is said to be a good omen.
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Elephants indulge in a two-tonne fruit buffet
Mr. Hame has been organising Tum Khwan Chang for over 50 years. His family simply wished to thank the elephants for contributing to their livelihoods.
Image for illustration purposes only
Image credit: The Momentum
This year, the Hame family prepared a two-tonne feast – complete with bananas, watermelons, and sugarcane. But while enjoying the sumptuous spread of fruits, Baitong‘s tooth fell out abruptly.
Elephant teeth are considered lucky trinkets
Upon witnessing the falling of an elephant’s tooth, locals were understandably excited. That’s because elephant teeth are considered lucky trinkets.
Baitong’s tooth
Screenshot: ข่าวเวิร์คพอยท์ 23
According to ancient Thai beliefs, the elephant’s molar tooth brings protection and good fortune to Thai military personnel, police officers, or any national service executives.
Netizens share their thoughts
Netizens gave their insight and predicted the actual meaning behind Baitong’s fallen tooth – perhaps, the incident was not all auspicious.
Screenshot: ข่าวเวิร์คพอยท์ 23
Translation: She was laying down and the tooth fell off. Even if this happens to cows, it’s not strange or new at all.
Screenshot: ข่าวเวิร์คพอยท์ 23
Translation: The tooth was fake.
Hope the elephants enjoyed their feast
No matter what one’s beliefs are, it’s always crucial to respect others’ opinions and personal beliefs. Whether or not the elephant’s tooth turns out to be an auspicious trinket or not, we think that having a diverse set of beliefs allows society to be more dynamic and inclusive.
In any case, we hope these hardworking elephants enjoyed their well-deserved fruit buffet, after hustling hard in the fields.
More community news:
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- YouTuber cosplays as a Spartan
- Thai man suits up as a cop score resort discounts
Cover image adapted from: The Momentum (Left), ข่าวเวิร์คพอยท์ 23 (Right)
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