Phichit monks revive old tradition of beating drums at twilight

At Wat Rong Chang, drums and bells can be heard at twilight as a symbolic call on monks and farmers to return home.

In ancient times, temples rang bells and beat drums to mark time during Lent, as well as to announce a disaster, such as fire, robbery, a monk’s death or to announce that a monk has committed a serious offence. Temples also beat drums during an eclipse to reportedly drive away the mythical god Rahu, who apparently swallowed the sun or moon. The rhythm at which drums were beaten and bells run were different for each incident.