Khuen Khao Phao Khao Lam : Dynamics and Role of Khao Lam merit-making in Contemporary Thai Society

Abstract

This article investigated the Khuen Khao Phao Khao Lam tradition, focusing on its dynamics and the role of Khao Lam merit-making tradition within the context of contemporary Thai society. Field research was conducted from 2022 to 2023 in the Nong Naen community, Phanom Sarakham district, and the Hua Samrong community, Plaeng Yao district, both in Chachoengsao province. The study employed theories of creative folklore and functionalism as its analytical framework. The study found that the Lao Wiang "Khuen Khao Phao Khao Lam" tradition took place on the full moon day of the third lunar month, which was Makha Bucha Day. The purposes of this tradition were to make merit by offering Khao Lam (sticky rice roasted in bamboo) to Buddhist monks and to glide the replica of the Buddha's footprint at the top of Dong Yang Mountain. This tradition spread to the Khmer community in Hua Samrong, which was located on the path to Dong Yang Mountain. Subsequently, state agencies became involved in organizing the tradition, incorporating performances and transforming it into a festival to promote tourism, and it assumed a new role as a tradition promoting tourism during Makha Bucha Day in Chachoengsao province.