Detraditionalization: A Transformation of the Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival in the Age of Globalization

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of the Bun Bangfai Rocket festival through a process called “detraditionalization” by discussing through Anthony Giddens’s ideas of post-traditional society. The Bun Bangfai festival has been tremendously changed from its traditional form thus making both insiders and outsiders question the collapse of this festival although it is still a source of pride for the Isan people. In the case of Yasothon province, the communities and the Yasothon Municipality play a major role in integrating ideas of the modernization and modern management into the Bun Bangfai festival. This makes the local people to resuscitate some activities, maintain the old rituals, and construct new components. The result is a mixed form of entertainment responding to the economic lifestyle of the people and comprising some new events not related to the old traditions or beliefs. Thus, the Bun Bangfai festival remains intact and will continue to be a tradition of the local people that is adjusted to fit the changing context.