Tongsung Puppets and Way of Life in MuangKom Community, Kuan Lang, Hat yai, Songkhla

Abstract

       The objective of this qualitative study was to investigate the history of Thong Sung Puppets and their relationship with the way of life of people in Ban Muang Khom Community. The data were collected through in-depth interviews, pictures, note-taking, participatory observations, and related documents. There were five primary and seven secondary informants.

The results revealed that Thong Sung Puppets had a long history but their exact date of origin could not be determined. Local intellectuals who were descendants of the “Nuanchan” family believed that Thong Sung Puppets originated in Ban Muang Khom before spreading to other areas. Thong Sung Puppets had been related with people’s way of life and beliefs. They respected the puppets as ancestors of the community. In important community activities and on important religious days, Thong Sung Puppets were indispensable part.