In a unique cultural celebration, a group of Thai worshippers recently fulfilled their vows to a goddess on Koh Nom Sao, colloquially known as Young Women’s Breasts Island, located in the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan. The locals expressed their gratitude by offering bras to the goddess after their wishes were granted.
The Tradition of Bra Offerings
Sumate Charoensuk, the President of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) committee of Sam Roi Yot Sub-district, shared insights about this unusual practice with various news outlets on June 4. He explained that after their wishes—often related to success in romantic relationships—were fulfilled, locals returned to the island to present bras as offerings to the goddess.
Visitors typically embark on a ten-minute boat ride to the island, situated about one kilometer from the mainland, to make their wishes. The belief in the goddess is well-known among both locals and tourists who frequent the Sam Roi Yot district.
The Legend Behind the Goddess
According to Sumate, the reverence for the goddess stems from a local legend regarding the formation of the islands in the area. The tale recounts a family with a beautiful daughter named Yomdoy. Her father wished for her to marry a Chinese ruler, while her mother preferred a match with the son of a ruler from Phetchaburi province. This conflict led to a tragic outcome, with the father tearing Yomdoy’s body in half and casting each half into the sea. One half became Koh Nom Sao in Prachuap Khiri Khan, while the other became a similar island in Chanthaburi province.
Approximately 80 years ago, local fishermen sought refuge on Koh Nom Sao during a storm and witnessed a mysterious spark rising from the island. Believing it to be a protective spirit, they invited a spiritual medium to investigate, who confirmed the presence of the Nom Sao goddess. This prompted the locals to build a shrine in her honor.
Community Support and Tourism
Sumate announced that all bras offered to the goddess would be donated to those in need, promoting a spirit of community support. He also encouraged both Thai and foreign tourists to visit Koh Nom Sao, which not only hosts the revered goddess but also boasts stunning natural beauty and excellent diving spots.
As this tradition continues to thrive, it highlights the unique blend of spirituality and community in Thai culture, drawing attention to the island’s significance and the heartfelt expressions of gratitude from its visitors.
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