Each year tens of thousands of teenage boys in Thailand are ordained as Buddhist monks in a traditional rite of passage. But in today’s technologically dependent society many traditional Buddhists are having a hard time keeping these teenagers from overusing media outlets.
Some young monks have posted videos of themselves on YouTube playing air guitar to hard-rock track or reciting religious chants to hip-hop music.
Even though Buddhism is practiced by more than 90 per cent of Thailand’s population modern day influences have made their way into the culture. Now with many Thais going online novice monks are becoming online media stars leaving behind some of the more traditional residents.
“The younger generation is losing respect,” said 48-year-old Pornpun Kaewbundit, as she left a temple in Bangkok.
Some monks have also been filming themselves playing pranks on other novices or shouting out lyrics from Thailand’s heavy-metal band Bodyslam. Deodorant sticks or brooms often double as their guitars.
The clips of these monks have been growing in popularity with some users taking clips and remixing is with new music.
Even some of the older Buddhists have been joining in. Phra Klairung Rujidammo, a temple secretary, had his own bit of fame when he was filmed performing suggestive dance moves, known as coyote dancing. When the clip when viral he apologized saying he was trying to cheer people up after flooding hit Bangkok. His superiors gave him a two-week suspension.
There are still many Buddhist who believe there is too much disrespect in Buddhism. Recently, members of the Knowing Buddha Organization campaigned through Khao San Road and Chatuchak Market holding signs and informing locals and tourists alike that it was time to show more respect to the Buddha image.
Some Buddhists are fighting for their religion by using TV shows and the internet to revive Buddhist teachings. Thai cable network True Corp. this year began airing a live, rolling documentary about the lives of nine novice monks ordained at a temple in eastern Bangkok. Snappily titled “Novice Monks Cultivate Dharma Wisdom,” it was a surprise hit.
Knowing Buddha Organization:
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