UDON THANI, Jan 30 – Disciples and followers of Thailand’s highly-revered monk Luangta Maha Bua Yanasampanno thronged to make merit during morning alms for the monk who died early Sunday at the age of 98.

Luangta Maha Bua died of lung infection and an intestinal obstruction at 3.53am at Wat Pa Ban Tad in the northeastern province of Udon Thani.

Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn will preside over a royally-sponsored bathing rite at the temple at 6pm Sunday.

The monk was admitted to Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok on Dec 3 after being treated earlier at hospitals in Khon Kaen and Udon Thani. He returned to Wat Pa Ban Tad on Jan 3.

MCOT