Northeast Thailand: Villagers flock to Ya Kok shrine for lottery luck

Residents of the village of Mab Krad, Khok Krachai, Khon Buri, and Nakhon Ratchasima, are gathering at the Ya Kok shrine to seek good fortune for the upcoming lottery draw.

This follows the appearance of the second-prize lottery number. Residents offer worship items including savoury and sweet food like pork heads, boiled chicken, and beverages. They lay their purchased lottery tickets on the shrine, hoping that Ya Kok will grant them a big win in the coming draw.

The Ya Kok shrine is a highly respected entity in the area, with many locals regularly visiting to pray for blessings. Many have seen their wishes fulfilled consistently.

For instance, 50 year old Khampha Songsakthong, a resident of Mab Krad, previously won a big lottery prize. He won the second prize in the government lottery, receiving 200,000 baht after praying for luck at the Ya Kok shrine.

Khampha has begun constructing a pathway to the shrine and improving the surrounding landscape to make the shrine area more appealing. This is his way of giving back to Ya Kok for granting him the fortune he sought. He hopes to win another big prize so he can offer more items and continue improving the shrine area.

The Ya Kok shrine was established over 100 years ago in memory of Ya Kok, a revered figure amongst residents. Ya Kok met his untimely death in a boat accident while navigating his hand-dug canoe through this waterway. The locals set up the shrine as a protective figure for those using boats in this area, and they regularly come to pay their respects, reported Sanook.

Over recent years, this area has become a diverse tourist destination, attracting a large number of visitors. Every visitor makes a point to pay respects at the shrine for protection during their visit, especially regarding safety while engaging in water activities.

They also seek blessings for overall prosperity and success in various aspects, including lottery luck. Many have seen their wishes come true and have returned to offer more items in faith. The Ya Kok shrine has become an unforgettable spot for tourists visiting the area.