A new trend for worship in Thailand is the enormous statue of Kru Guy Kaeo
The statue, resembling a gargoyle from Notre-Dame Cathedral, became known after an incident on the road in Bangkok last week.
The vehicle transporting the statue got stuck under an overpass on Ratchadaphisek Road, blocking traffic for about two hours.
A few days later, the statue was installed in front of a hotel in the Ratchadapisek-Ladprao area.
The statue of the deity Kru Guy Kaeo sparked mixed comments among the public: some people claimed it was associated with black magic, while others believed the statue might help one become wealthy.
Furthermore, ambiguous information began to circulate online regarding the use of pets as sacrifices to Kru Guy Kaeo. In response to this information, an animal protection foundation quickly warned about the criminal liability for killing animals.
One of the followers of Kru Guy Kaeo worship debunked the sacrifice information. The man explained that offerings to Kru Guy Kaeo can only include sweets and fruits.
Thongtong Chandransu, an expert in history, religion, and culture, states that historical records do not mention "Kru Guy Kaeo" as a teacher of Khmer faith.
In his opinion, the fascination with worshiping an unknown sculpture demonstrates a certain level of psychological vulnerability in society.
In response to the public reaction to Kru Guy Kaeo, the organization "Council of Artists for Promotion of Buddhism" will file a complaint against the owner of the Night Bazaar Hotel, demanding the removal of the statue from the premises.