Bangkok devotees offer boba tea to Lord Ganesha

In Bangkok, Thailand, devotees are practicing a unique form of worship by offering boba milk tea to Lord Ganesha instead of the traditional Indian sweets like modak or laddus. This practice was captured in a viral video filmed outside a Ganesha temple at Union Mall.

Local traditions in Thailand have integrated popular modern items into religious offerings. Devotees believe that offering boba tea—a highly popular drink in the country—is a way to connect with the deity. According to local customs, if a prayer is answered, the devotee returns to offer more tea. This can start with a few cups and increase significantly; reports indicate some devotees have offered as many as 200 cups to express gratitude.

In Thailand, Ganesha is known by names such as Phra Phikanet or Phra Phikanesuan and is revered as a remover of obstacles and a bringer of success. This modern twist on traditional offerings highlights the ongoing cultural fusion between Hindu traditions and local Thai customs.