Phuket’s historic Old Town was transformed into a sea of music, devotion, and celebration as more than 10,000 people joined the island’s first-ever Ganesh Chaturthi Festival procession. For one unforgettable evening, the streets pulsed with colour, chants, and festive joy, marking the arrival of a cultural tradition never before seen in Phuket.
The celebration was the vision of Thai entrepreneur Ms. Papachsorn Meepa, who built the magnificent Lord Ganesh Temple in Rawai in just 15 months. Her dream came to life as Phuket welcomed a festival that blended India’s devotional fervour with Thailand’s heartfelt reverence for Lord Ganesh—an occasion that brought cultures, communities, and generations together.
With roads closed for the procession, the atmosphere was electric: devotional music filled the air courtesy of the Dhol Tasha drum parade, dancers and devotees carried offerings, and the community united in a spirit of celebration. The festival, adorned with 200,000 fresh flowers, not only captivated locals but also drew visitors from around the world, showcasing Phuket as a destination where tradition and tourism meet on a global stage.
“Phuket has never experienced anything like this,” said Papachsorn Meepa. “This is more than a festival—it’s a cultural bridge, a symbol of friendship between Thailand and India, and the start of a new chapter for Phuket’s street celebrations.”
The event drew numerous celebrities and renowned figures from government and private organisations, including Mr. Chayatham Prommasorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport; Mr. Suwit Phunsiam, Deputy Governor of Phuket; Mr. Rewat Areerob, President of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation; Mr. Prasit Sinsaowapak, Deputy Mayor of Phuket City Municipality and Mr. Ravi Chandran, former CEO of Laguna Phuket, reflecting the festival’s importance for both culture and tourism.