BEIJING (SCMP): People are flocking to an island in Thailand that is shaped like a woman’s chest to pray for romantic luck.
The unusual ritual takes place on Koh Nom Sao, or Breast Milk Island, in Prachuap Khiri Khan province in the west of the country.
The island is just a 10-minute boat ride from the mainland and so-called worshippers often arrive bearing bras as symbolic offerings of gratitude.
The origins of the ritual stem from a tragic legend involving a beautiful young woman called Yomdoy.
Her father wanted to secure Yomdoy’s marriage to a Chinese ruler, while her mother preferred she marry a prince from Phetchaburi province in central Thailand.
In a violent outburst, the father killed Yomdoy and cast her body into the sea.
According to the tale, one of her breasts became the sacred Koh Nom Sao, while the other formed a twin island in Chanthaburi province in eastern Thailand.
The breast-shaped islands are just a 10-minute boat ride from mainland Thailand. Photo: handout
About 80 years ago, a fisherman seeking refuge from a storm reported seeing a mysterious glowing light above the island. This was believed to be the spirit of the goddess Yomdoy.
A shrine was built in her honour, and over time, the practice of offering bras to symbolise intimate hopes, particularly in love and relationships, has taken root.
Sumate Charoensuk, head of the Corporate Social Responsibility committee for Sam Roi Yot Sub-district, told Thai.News that miracles attributed to the goddess have long been widely recognised in the local community.
Each year, Koh Nom Sao attracts a steady stream of devotees, particularly those seeking blessings for love and romance.
Sumate said the tradition also serves a practical purpose as the donated bras are carefully sorted and distributed to local women’s groups and communities in need.
He encouraged domestic and international tourists to visit the island.
“Travellers cannot only immerse themselves in the island’s unique cultural and spiritual practices but also enjoy its breathtaking natural scenery and renowned diving spots,” Sumate said.
The unusual tradition has attracted much attention online.
“I need to make a pilgrimage and pay my respects, please give me the address! I would love to go sightseeing while I am there,” said one person.
“True love and happiness are created by ourselves, not just by praying to a goddess. It is more important to seize the present than to chase after something illusory,” wrote another. - South China Morning Post
