Golden Buddha

Laos whispers ancient secrets. At the heart of Luang Prabang rests the Golden Buddha, a figure of reverence and the namesake of this enchanting city. Luang Prabang translates to “Land of the Golden Buddha”. This magnificent statue isn’t just a beautiful object. It embodies the spiritual essence of Laos, its history interwoven with tales of kingdoms, prophecies, and powerful beliefs. The Golden Buddha, also known as the Prabang, stands 83cm tall and weighs 43kg. It’s crafted from a special alloy of bronze, silver, and gold. Its posture, the Abhayamudra or “Dispelling Fear”, radiates a sense of peace and protection. Legend says the Golden Buddha arrived in Laos as a gift from a Khmer princess, Keo Keng Nya. She married Chao Fa Ngum, founder of the Lao kingdom of Lan Xang, in the 1350s. The Prabang journeyed from Angkor in a grand procession. It was accompanied by monks, priests, musicians, craftsmen, and thousands of attendants. Interestingly, it’s said the Golden Buddha became impossibly heavy upon reaching Vientiane, refusing to travel further north. It remained there for a time. Only in 1502 did King Visoun bring the Prabang to Xieng Thong (later Luang Prabang). It was housed in various temples. These included Vat Manorom and Vat Visoun, a temple specifically built for the statue. The Prabang’s journey continued. It was taken to Vientiane in 1705 and later captured by the Siamese, who took it to Bangkok. However, they returned it believing it caused misfortune when placed alongside their Emerald Buddha. The Prabang was then reclaimed by the Siamese in 1828, only to be returned again to Luang Prabang in 1867. The Golden Buddha has witnessed much, surviving even the destruction of Vat Visoun during the Haw invasion of 1887. It eventually found a home in Vat Mai, then the royal palace, before finally being enshrined in the Ho Prabang in 2013. Every year during Lao New Year (Phi Mai), the Golden Buddha is taken from its shrine. It’s carried to Vat Mai where people pay their respects by pouring water over this sacred image. The Golden Buddha is more than just a statue. It’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of Laos. A symbol of resilience, faith, and the rich tapestry of history that has shaped this captivating nation.