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ERAWAN SHRINE
(Than Tao Mahaprom)

During the mid 1950’s, the government decided to build the deluxe Erawan Hotel on this location. However, the first stages of the construction met with so many problems that the superstitious workers refused to continue unless the land spirits were appeased. After consultations with astrologers, the erection of a shrine to honour the four-faced Brahma God, Than Tao Mahaprom, was considered to be most auspicious. A magnificent image of the Brahma God was especially cast and gilded by the Department of Fine Arts and placed on November 9, 1956. The Erawan Hotel opened to acclaims and enjoyed worldwide fame for 30 years. Towards the end, the property could not compete with more modern facilities and was replaced by the private sector-owned Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok in 1991.

Than Tao Mahaprom is believed to be a Brahma god full of kindness, mercy, sympathy and impartiality. Each virtue is represented in the four faces of the image, radiating serene grace. As the shrine was originally constructed to grace the old Erawan Hotel, the location became known as the Erawan Shrine.

Since Buddhism in Thailand has always been influenced by the Brahma beliefs, the Erawan Shrine made an immediate impact as evidenced by the unending streams of people paying respects from early morning till late at night. Thais, and even foreign visitors, make ceremonial offerings from floral garlands, fruits to teakwood elephants in the hope that their wishes will be fulfilled. Judging from the flowing multitude of believers, those wishes were indeed granted. Cash contributions are managed by a Foundation who distributes funds regularly to various charitable organisations and equipment for needy hospitals in the provinces.

For some, such reverence may seem to be only a superstitious belief. However, during misfortune or ill health, all of us need a spiritual uplift to help us through hard times. The Erawan Shrine has supplied that inner strength to many people and made their lives easier to bear while struggling to overcome their problems.

To feel the aura of reverence while watching the joyful celebration of a graceful Thai Classical Dance troupe or a lively Chinese Lion Dance is an experience to be added to your many memories of exotic Bangkok.