Doraemon sparks controversy after Thai ritual ‘breaks tradition’ to stop animal cruelty

The use of a Doraemon plush toy in a Thai ceremony to prevent animal cruelty gained significant attention in the media.

Despite the country experiencing record-high temperatures and a lack of rain, the residents of three villages in Nakhon Sawan province came together in late April for a traditional “rain-making”ceremony.

According to The Straits Times, villagers in Thailand follow a tradition of parading a cat around affected areas in hopes of bringing immediate rain. However, in order to avoid causing stress to an animal, they have started using a plush toy of Doraemon instead.

Due to no rain for several months in many areas of Thailand, a rain-making ceremony was held which requires the use of a cat. However the locals decided to use Doraemon instead — a modern twist against animal cruelty. And Thailand is taking this news very seriously.There… pic.twitter.com/3gg6FQbk3b

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Doraemon, created by the renowned artist duo Fujiko Fujio, has been winning over fans for decades since its introduction in 1969. It remains a beloved childhood favorite even in present times, solidifying its position as the most popular anime cat in the world.

Despite the widespread popularity of the viral image of a Doraemon stuffed animal being held in a cage, with over 16 million views on X/Twitter, there were some who took issue with it. According to reports, the traditional Hae Nang Maew Ceremony involves a female cat, leading critics to suggest using Dorami instead since Doraemon is male.

Dorami, who is Doraemon’s sister, also originates from the future. Like her brother, she frequently travels through time to visit him and Nobita.

“One user reacted to the post, stating that it was one of the silliest things they had read that morning. However, they also expressed their hope for rain and their disapproval of sacrificing real cats. Another commented on the post, finding it hilarious and suggesting both Doraemon and Dorami as potential sacrifices. A third