Last Updated on April 19, 2021
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Ganesha, one of the five Hindu deities, is known as Phra Phikanet or Phra Phikanesuan in Thailand. When Hindus spread out to South East Asia, they took many aspects of their culture with them, including Ganesha. In Thailand, he is worshiped as the deity of fortune and success and there are Phra Phikanet shrines all over the country. Many Thai Buddhists pay their respect not only to the Buddha, but also to Phra Phikanet, and bring him offerings such as sweets, incense, flowers and fruit, hoping that in return he will help their businesses flourish.
We think we’ll start traveling with extra donuts and flowers to leave with Phra Phikanet, too!
Anji
Monday 5th of December 2011
Didn't know that Thai people also worshipped Ganesha- it's nice to see cultures mingle.
Dani
Tuesday 6th of December 2011
We had no idea either, and there are so many Ganesha figures everywhere!
Spaniard in Thailand
Friday 18th of November 2011
There is even a museum dedicated to Ganesha a few kilometers away from Chiang Mai.
Dani
Saturday 19th of November 2011
Oh thanks so much for mentioning that - we have to make sure to check it out when we get back to Chiang Mai!