Erawan Shrine in Bangkok is Brahman, not strictly Buddhist. And yet, this famous shrine attracts more visitors than many of the city's temples. It was erected during the mid 1950s, after the Thai government had decided to build the luxury Erawan Hotel on this location. However, the first stages of the construction were beset with so many problems that superstitious labourers refused to continue unless the land spirits were appeased.
Update: Aug 17, 2015 8:42 AM ET
A bomb exploded in the centre of the Thai capital Bangkok during the evening rush hour on Monday, killing at least 18 people and injuring 100 police said. Police Chief Prawut Thawornsiri said the blast was caused by a bomb.The explosion took place at the Rajprasong intersection, which was the centre of many contentious political demonstrations in recent years. It appeared to have occurred in front of the Erawan Shrine, a tourist landmark also popular with Thais that is adjacent to an upscale hotel.
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