Family and disciples say farewell to the White Dragon King in Pattaya

The White Dragon King Temple in the Thai resort of Pattaya was jammed with people, all dressed in white, as they paid final tribute to their master, Chau Yum-nam.

By coincidence or, as some followers believed, the supernatural power of Chau, claps of thunder accompanied the gongs and drums at the moment Chau was buried, though the sky was clear just minutes before. Some pointed up, claiming a stretch of cloud over the newly built hall where Chau was buried resembled a dragon.

Chau, who died last month at the age of 76, was considered by many to be a portal of the Chinese deity White Dragon King. Chau had a vision of the deity when he was 13 years old and built the temple at 28, purportedly following the deity's order.

Chau's followers include many Hong Kong celebrities, such as Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Andy Lau Tak-wah.

Monks began their rituals at 8am yesterday, and the ceremony lasted until 2pm. More than 1,000 followers, including directors Andrew Lau and Wong Jing, and businessman Albert Yeung Sau-shing attended the funeral.

Businessman Wong Chong-shan, also known as Kanjanapas Keeree, who first introduced Chau to Hong Kong celebrities, and some other followers paid their tribute earlier.