Nora Rong Khrue by Chalermprapa Troupe Pattani : Alterations resulted from present situations

Abstract

                 This research aimed to study the ritual practices, cultural inheritance and community relationship through the rites of Nora Rong Khru performance in Pattani by Chalermprapa troupe. The data were collected by interviews, observation and small group meetings. The findings of the study were presented using descriptive analysis approach.

                Chalermprapa, Nora Rong Khru, was established more than 40 years ago. At the beginning, the business was Nora, Nang Ta Lung and Li Mont but now it focuses on only Nora Rong Khru and Li Mont. Nora Rong Khru is usually performed in the sixth, seventh, ninth and eleventh month of the year in lunar calendar. Currently, the performance runs with one day and two nights overall 10 – 15 times a year. The members of Nora Rong Khrue are mostly their relatives, disciples, followers and respecters of the troupe headman. Ritual procedures may be adapted in accordance with time suitability and purposes of the host. 

                Nora Rong Khru in Pattani has been inherited among relatives from the past to the present.  Merye is a ritual commitment, while medium is the selected descendant who is the representative of Khru Mor Nora (spirits of former masters). It is believed that, at this stage, Khru Mor Nora will dwell in the medium to meet his posterity, join the activities and take the oblation - Merye. The troupe headman is like an intermediary of unchaining the obligation in the rite of Merye cutting who must have an experience in the ceremony of putting Serd (crown) on the head (the ceremony of topknot cutting). Nora Rong Khru not only can increase the relationship within family and the sense of community, as they can participate in this ceremony, but also can entertain the audiences by the performance of 12 different dances, 12 short stories and huntsman show (comedy show). Furthermore, Nora Rong Khru can also cure some kinds of skin diseases such as red spots, moles or birth marks.