Salwar-clad woman climbs atop Thailand temple idol to pluck mango; sparks outrage

The video of a woman stepping on a 14^th century sacred Buddhist statue in a temple in Thailand’ Ayutthaya has enraged netizens. The woman, dressed in a white salwar kameez, is seen scaling the idol in the temple to pick mangoes from an adjacent tree while her lady accomplice looks on. Their action have prompted outrage, with many demanding strict action against the women. The video first appeared on X and then went to other social media platforms. However, the nationality of these women is not known. While some social media users claim they are from India, others call them British–Canadian tourists. Earlier, an Indian tourist who visited Vietnam slammed fellow Indian tourists for their bad behaviour and blamed them for ruining the country’s reputation. How should tourists ensure that they are respectful while visiting Thai temples? Here’s what you should know:

Things to remember
1) Stepping on statues is considered extremely inappropriate. Never touch, sit on, lean on, or step on such statues, their pedestals, or even ruins. Even when they might appear broken, they can still be sacred to the local people.
2) Tourists should cover their knees and shoulders and avoid tight or see-through outfits while visiting temples.
3) If you want to take photos, check whether it is allowed in the spot.
4) If photography is allowed at all, do not take disrespectful photos that mimic the gestures or postures of the idols.
5) Turning back on Buddha statues for selfies is considered disrespectful.
6) Avoid loud conversations and laughter
7) If certain areas in the temples are off limits and instructions on the same are displayed, respect them.
8) Do not point your feet at statues; it can be disrespectful.