Dvaravati in Nakhon Pathom: Creating Value, Generating Wealth and Cultivating Local Pride

Abstract

The research titled “Dvaravati in Nakhon Pathom: Creating Value, Generating Wealth, Cultivating Local Pride” was a mixed methods research project using qualitative and quantitative approaches. The objectives were: 1) to establish mechanisms and cooperation networks to conserve, develop, and create value and importance for the Dvaravati civilization in Nakhon Pathom; 2) to create products and services from the Dvaravati cultural capital of Nakhon Pathom that meet consumer demands; 3) to develop the potential and enhance the capabilities of entrepreneurs and successors and creators within Dvaravati cultural capital; and 4) to foster economic and social changes in the community for sustainability and to cultivate local pride among people in Nakhon Pathom province. Key findings indicated the following: 1) A collaborative network of 67 organizations was established to promote and conserve Dvaravati’s valuable cultural capital through operational mechanisms and guidelines for driving Dvaravati’s cultural capital in 4 key areas: policy promotion and development, conservation and dissemination, business promotion, and educational promotion. 2) A cultural map of Dvaravati and its cultural assets was created, consisting of 50 tangible and intangible items in the research area. 3) Media was created to promote learning about Dvaravati culture in the form of video motion graphics and animation. 4) Thirteen cultural entrepreneurs were created producing products inspired by Dvaravati cultural capital, including artisans, handicrafts, food, and children’s books. 5) Two sets of musical and dance performances were developed. 6) Three Dvaravati cultural tourism routes have been created and included reviving the tradition of giving alms to monks in the Wat Phra Ngam community. 7) The economic valuation, as measured by the Return on Investment (ROI), increased by 58%, and the cost-benefit analysis (CBA) ratio increased by 49% and the evaluation of social return on investment (SROI), value was 1:3.83.