A NEW Thai eatery launched itself in a unique way by having a traditional Buddhist blessing to mark its opening today (February 21).
Chang Thai River, which is based in Load Street, launched with the Buddhist ritual to celebrate the opening of the new restaurant.
The three monks, who had travelled from a temple in Birmingham, blessed holy water before sprinkling it around the restaurant.
Members of the Thai community in Wyre Forest were also there in traditional Thai dress to add to the ritual.
Restaurant owner Jirawan Thamphiban, who is known as Lek, said: "This is a ceremony we do in Thailand for anything new, such as a restaurant, baby or home”.
"Buddhism is the foundation of our lives as Thai people. For the celebration of something new, there must always be an odd number of monks”.
"They blessed some holy water, and lit candles which were dipped in the water”.
"The water was sprinkled around the restaurant and kitchen. They also made a sign which will be hung above the entrance and in the kitchen.
"Our passion is to share a real taste of Thailand's cuisine with the people of Wyre Forest by serving traditional Thai food and educating customers on the culture surrounding our cuisine."
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