NAKHON SI THAMMARAT, THAILAND – An erotic dance show at a funeral in southern Thailand sparked a storm of debate on social media.
Erotic show in front of open coffin
In the Ron Phibun district, hundreds of people gathered for the final night of prayers for a 59-year-old man. After traditional chants by the monks, the mood changed abruptly.
The family brought in a large sound truck and parked it in front of the house. Three scantily dressed women then started an energetic performance directly in front of the coffin containing the deceased.
Last wish of the deceased
The man had died on 15 April and was known in his village as a cheerful and sociable person. His relatives said he had clearly expressed this kind of farewell while he was still alive.
He did not want a dark and tearful ceremony. Instead, he had insisted that dancers should be part of his final journey.
Fierce online debate
A video of the event was uploaded to social networks and spread rapidly. Thousands of users argued intensely about the unusual decision made by the family.
Some supported the relatives and felt it was right to honour the man’s final will. They viewed the event as a celebration of life rather than a sad ending.
Criticism of revealing performance
Conservative citizens voiced strong objections, calling the show completely inappropriate and disrespectful to Thai culture. They argued that such performances had no place at a funeral.
Particular concern focused on the children who were present. Critics feared that exposure to these images could damage the values of the younger generation.