Main photo: Wat Ratchabophit//Freepik
Ratchabophit Temple, in Bangkok, where the Supreme Patriarch resides, has issued an announcement banning the use of the temple's premises for pre-wedding and wedding photo shoots, among other things.
This decision follows the temple's recent gain in popularity online among brides, grooms and wedding studios.
“There are some misunderstandings among those on social media platforms. As approved by the abbot, the temple wishes to reiterate that it allows only the organisation of Buddhism-related religious rites,” the statement reads.
The temple does not permit wedding ceremonies to be held on its premises, except for merit-making events related to weddings.
No marriage registrations or engagement proposal ceremonies are allowed at the temple, nor is inappropriate behaviour, such as climbing on the temple’s statues and buildings.
Any information contrary to the above is inaccurate and misleading, said the statement.
The temple will not allow any photo or video shoots or commercial events on its premises. If such activities continue, the temple may seek assistance from law enforcement.
Some photo studios have advertised the temple on their Facebook pages and included photos of brides and grooms at the temple.
The announcement went viral online, with many people supporting the temple’s decision and arguing that using the temple for such events is inappropriate.
A Facebook user wrote, alongside the temple’s announcement, “I am happy to be the last to have had the opportunity to hold a pre-wedding at the temple, as this practice will no longer be allowed.”
