Thailand presents buffalo racing costume at Miss Grand International
Ning Patthama represents Thailand in a buffalo-inspired national costume as contestants compete in Bangkok ahead of the October 10 final.
- Thailand's representative, Patthama Jitsawat, wore a national costume titled "The Royal Buffalo of Siam" at the Miss Grand International competition.
- The costume is inspired by Chonburi's traditional buffalo racing festival, reflecting the longstanding bond between Thai farmers and their buffaloes.
- Designed by Art Akarach, the outfit combines the shape of a buffalo's head with traditional Thai clothing to symbolize perseverance, diligence, and strength.
Miss Grand International 2026 holds its national costume and preliminary competitions at MGI Hall in Bangkok’s Bravo BKK shopping centre on Wednesday (October 7, 2026), ahead of the final on October 10.
Thailand’s representative, Patthama Jitsawat, known as Ning, is competing for the title on home soil.
The national costume round begins at 1pm, followed by the preliminary round featuring evening gowns and swimwear at 8pm.
Free live coverage is available on the official GrandTV YouTube channel.
The 14th edition moved to Thailand after the Miss Grand International organisation cancelled India’s hosting arrangements in early September, saying the venues and operations did not meet contractual standards.
Thailand is hosting the event from September 18 to October 10, with representatives from more than 80 countries taking part.
Patthama’s national costume, “The Royal Buffalo of Siam”, was designed and made by Art Akarach.
Inspired by Chonburi’s traditional buffalo racing festival, it reflects the longstanding bond between Thai farmers and their buffaloes, presenting the animals as enduring companions as well as a source of farm labour.
The design combines the shape of a buffalo’s head with traditional Thai clothing, woven elements and natural colours drawn from farmland.
These features convey perseverance, diligence and strength.
The final begins at 7pm on October 10, when Emma Tiglao of the Philippines, Miss Grand International 2025, is due to present the sash and crown to her successor.
