In a unique and interesting initiative, a Chinese cemetery in Thailand hosted a special film screening for the dead. Yes, that’s right. Located in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northern Thailand, the cemetery is home to 2,800 graves. For the film screening for the dead, staff carefully arranged empty seats. Reportedly, the special event took place from June 2 to June 6, allowing the deceased to enjoy the movies in an unusual way.
The film screening was organised to honour the souls of Chinese migrants who settled in Thailand and whose descendants are mostly buried there. According to the South China Morning Post, a crew of just four oversaw the outdoor film screening, which took place every day from 7pm until late at night. (Also read: Hyderabad man dies ₹Man caught in FedEx scam, loses Rs 12 lakh, arrested by Cyber Police
The news agency also reported that workers had prepared a banquet for the spirits and burned paper offerings of food, model houses, vehicles, clothing and everyday items. The Sawang Metta Thamsathan Foundation organized a screening event to honour the spirits and provide them with temporary entertainment.
According to event organizer Somchai, it is customary in many Chinese communities in Thailand to screen films for the deceased around the Dragon Boat Festival or after Qingming Festival. Yanaut Chakrawatisawan, a contractor for the event, admitted he was initially nervous about screening a film at a cemetery, but said the experience was unique and positive. (Related article: Spain to introduce “porn passports.” What are they and how will they work?)
It is believed that the soul’s continued presence in the human world is due to unfulfilled desires, and these rituals provide comfort, memorialization and respect for the soul, thereby reducing its “interference” with humans.
