The event began in front of the Kathu Municipality Office, where Mayor Wannayut ’Beng’ Suthikul led municipal executives, council members, staff and local residents in inviting three revered deities – Hyo Hoi, Hyo Yen, and Dian Hu Nguan Soi (Lord Lao Ei) – from the People’s Republic of China to the historic shrine.
The procession covered about 700 metres, filling the streets with colour, incense and the sound of traditional music.
Known locally as the Phra Lao Eia ceremony, the ritual is a cornerstone of the cultural identity of Chinese Thais in Kathu and is closely linked to the origins of Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival, said an official report of the event.
Organisers described the event as not only a religious observance but also a symbolic bridge between the Kathu community and its ancestral homeland in China.
“This ceremony reflects the cultural roots and faith of the Chinese-Thai people of Kathu,” Mayor Wannayut said. “It shows our unity and pride in preserving this heritage for future generations.”
The 200th anniversary added special significance to this year’s celebration, drawing participation from a wide range of local groups, including shrine caretakers, cultural performers and community volunteers.
The procession was marked by an atmosphere of devotion and harmony, underscoring the enduring connection between Kathu’s residents and the traditions they have maintained for two centuries.
The Kathu Shrine, widely regarded as the birthplace of Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival, remains a focal point for the island’s Chinese-Thai community. The ceremony yesterday highlighted the ongoing commitment of local leaders and residents to safeguard their spiritual and cultural legacy as the shrine embarks on its third century of worship and celebration.