Transcript 5-8 The Wax Castle Procession 1136 Kb 03/11/14

Taledow Jareunsombut M.5/8 No 9
Wunnisa Reuanngam M. 5/8 No 32
To
Teacher Jantana Khamanukul
To mark the end of Buddhist Lent or ‘Ok Pansa’, communities
in Northeastern Thailand or ‘I-San’ stage an annual celebration
consisting of a grand procession of meticulously-carved wax
castles, long-boat races and festive celebrations. On the final day of
the festival, which falls on the end of the Buddhist Lent, local
residents make a trip to the temples to make merit.
This ancient folk tradition that has been
passed down from generation to generation.
Over the centuries, the tradition has evolved.
Originally, ornate wax trees carved out of
poles of beeswax were presented to temples
along with other merit-making ritual offerings.
Contemporary offerings consist of elaborate
designs and sophisticated shapes and forms.
Beeswax is molded into miniature Buddhist
temples and shrines or wax castles.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official
calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the
date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and
waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals
reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as
observed in times past.