BANGKOK: Thailand’s drought-stricken farmers got a rare bit of good news Monday, when a pair of sacred bulls predicted that the heavens would finally open during the upcoming rainy season.
The bovine prophecy came during the kingdom’s much-watched annual royal ploughing ceremony, an ancient rite officially marking the start of the main rice cultivation season. During the ceremony, the creatures -- who must adhere to a strict list of physical attributes and boast a “polite temperament” -- are offered bowls containing various foods.