Dok Khun Siang Khaen Festival is held during April 13-15 every year at Bung Kaen Nakhon. The day starts with merit making, followed by pouring holy water on Buddha images, local dramatic arts, floral cart procession, northeastern food contest, boat race in Bung Kaen Nakhon, and shops selling a variety of products
Dok Khun Siang Khaen Festival
The World Sand Sculpture Festival
(November 28, 2007 - March 28, 2008: Srisothorn Road, Chachoengsao provincial center, Chachoengsao)
The World Sand Sculpture Festival - the world's largest indoor sand sculpture exhibition - is being held in Thailand for the first time.
The four-month long festival, which features 80 works of art created by over 70 highly talented sculptors from countries around the world, such as the Netherlands, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Ireland, the United States and Thailand, covers an area of 12 rai (1.92 hectares or 4.74 acres). The exhibition is divided into three zones.
ZONE 1:The Royal Projects Zone
The sand sculptures in this zone depict themes related to Royal Projects initiated by His Majesty the King of Thailand and reflect the extraordinary achievements of His Majesty the King of Thailand during the 60 years of his glorious reign.Among the fascinating works of art are sand sculptures representing the Chaipattana aerator, an award-winning invention patented by His Majesty the King; Bhumibol Dam, royal rainmaking, His Majesty's 'Micro Mod' sailing boat, a jazz band, Mae Fah Luang Gardens and Doi Tung Royal Villa, the first royal residence of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindara, the Princess Mother, the late mother of His Majesty the King of Thailand. HRH the Princess Mother dedicated her life to the conduct of royally-sponsored developmental initiatives for the benefit of the country and its people and endeared herself to the Thai nation. Her contribution to humanity was recognised by UNESCO in its description of the Princess Mother as a "World Great Personality of the 20th Century".
ZONE 2:The Thai History and Thai Literature Zone
The collection of 11 sand sculptures on display in the tent draw their inspiration from Thai history and characters depicted in Thai literature. For example, the giant yaak or demons that stand guard in front of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Sothorn Vararam Voraviharn temple - the sacred landmark of Chachoengsao province, Jatukarmramathep, King Naresuan the Great at war and a selection of characters from Thai literature.
ZONE 3The International Sand Sculpture Zone
These masterpieces by sculptors representing 13 participating countries capture the magnificence of a selection of famous landmarks from around the world - France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, China, Spain, Egypt and others. These include impressive sand sculptures of The Eiffel Tower accompanied by sculptures of French artists for which Paris is known; the Changing the Guards at Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London, the Statue of Liberty in New York and the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop, Japan's Mount Fuji and geishas, The Great Wall of China embellished with a dragon.In all, more than 40,000 tonnes of sand have been used to create these awe-inspiring masterpieces. The World Sand Sculpture Festival is an established event that originated in Europe 14 years ago. Given the popularity and success of the exhibition in its early years, the festival has since been held in several European countries including France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom and Denmark.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 10.00 - 19.00
Saturday and Sunday: 09.00 - 20.00
Public holidays: 08.00 - 22.00
Admission Fee
80 baht for adults; 40 baht for children
Contact information:Tel: (0) 3851 5120-1
MuayThai
4th World Thai Martial Arts Festival and waikru Muaythai ceremony (nai khanomtom day)
10-17 March each day at Ayutthaya World Heritage , Thailand
MUAYTHAI INFO
The Correct way to 'Wai'
One of Thailand’s special Customs is the 'Wai', it is used on a number of different occasions. Such as - a greeting when meeting people like other Muay Thai practitioners or students, people you train with or Thai people. It can also be used as a way to say farewell or good bye to them. This is also done by saying - Sawasdee Krab (with your palms joined & placed in a position lightly between the chest & fore head, head bowed slightly). Besides that, the Wai can be used to apologize or to say sorry, by also saying Khotode. In Thailand (and other places where its people have moved to) it is a significant Social Custom which reinforces both the Social structure and religious dogma. It is a statement of a persons rank in the Social hierarchy. Who 'Wais' whom first & exactly how, are all part of the dictates of the way to Wai. For instance, generally speaking, a younger person Wais an older person first, a Social inferior Wais a superior first. A monk will never Wai a layman. It is very important, that all Kru MuayThai should remember to stress the importance of the Wai to their trainees during Muay Thai Classes. Any trainees who may seem to forget this Traditional Custom should be firmly reminded of it !! Furthermore, Kru MuayThai should try to set a good example to their trainees in this at all times, and whenever it is possible.
WAI KRU
(With regard to - Paying homage to the Masters of Muay Thai)'Kru' is a Thai word which means the person who teaches 'sid', or passes on knowledge to pupils (sid). Normally Krus are highly respected in Thai Society. They are knowledge able, full of perseverance. They practice high moral standards in their way of life, leading very respectable lives. They always devote themselves to performing their teaching commitment until their pupils attain full knowledge and are successful in their fields. Such a Kru is usually rewarded by his sense of achievement, respect from everyone and an increase in the number of students willing to submit to his guidance.To show sincere appreciation and perseverance, dedication and generosity in conferring knowledge & providing experience for good opportunities, pupils in return will submit themselves obediently and respectfully to their own Teacher's instruction and advice, serve him diligently, and obey the rules and regulations laid down by him (or her), so that the Teacher can pass on the knowledge of that particular field to them closely, quickly, properly and wisely.Wai Kru is a demonstration of the pupil's respect & gratitude to his teacher in submission to the teaching & training. Wai Kru is traditionally practised by Thais of various professions & Arts, e.g dancers, sword fighters, musicians, as well as academic students, and of course Muay Thai Boxers are no exception. As we have previously stated, "Wai" means to pay respect by putting both hands together in front of the chest. The demonstration of Wai Kru does not only imply paying respect to the present Teacher, but also includes homage to all the teachers of the discipline.
The Wai Kru Ceremony
The Thais always hold Wai Kru ceremonies on a Thursday, which is believed to be the Teacher's day. On that day, pupils present certain offerings, usually flowers, money, cloth, etc to the person who has accepted them as his student. The pupils make a vow that they will study seriously and patiently, respect him and behave fairly to their fellow students and will use the knowledge gained properly, and so on (see the following copy on the next section). In Muay Thai practise, the initial Wai Kru is called - Kheun Kru (the initial Ceremony of Paying Respect to the Teacher). Subsequently, they will pay respect to their Teachers Ceremonially each year, which is called 'Yohk Kru'. But when ever the pupils intend to use the knowledge taught to them, they will always start by Paying Respect to their Teacher; this action is called Wai Kru or Bucha Kru (to Pay Respect to a Teacher).
The Thais always hold Wai Kru ceremonies on a Thursday, which is believed to be the Teacher's day. On that day, pupils present certain offerings, usually flowers, money, cloth, etc to the person who has accepted them as his student. The pupils make a vow that they will study seriously and patiently, respect him and behave fairly to their fellow students and will use the knowledge gained properly, and so on (see the following copy on the next section). In Muay Thai practise, the initial Wai Kru is called - Kheun Kru (the initial Ceremony of Paying Respect to the Teacher). Subsequently, they will pay respect to their Teachers Ceremonially each year, which is called 'Yohk Kru'. But when ever the pupils intend to use the knowledge taught to them, they will always start by Paying Respect to their Teacher; this action is called Wai Kru or Bucha Kru (to Pay Respect to a Teacher).
The Oath used in the Wai Kru Ceremony
Although there may be some slight differences in the Ceremony with regards to the order of the Rituals and Buddhist prayers that are used, the following are the ones which are most commonly used in the I.M.T.F. During the Wai Kru Ceremony, each of the Trainees will Repeat the 'Age Old Oath' in Paying respect to the Masters (and Grand Masters) of Muay Thai. This is as follows:
In Muay Thai, the boxer will always preface the fight with Wai Kru and this tradition is still practised nowadays. This ceremony is usually performed to rousing Thai music from pipes and drums, and with the initial Ram Muay (the boxing movement). The Wai Kru & Ram Muay are useful, since the Boxer gains encouragement from paying homage to his Teachers and feels that he is not on his own: he has his Teacher & the other Teachers of the Muay Thai discipline to support him.
The Wai Kru process will also give him time to concentrate & revise what he has learned, as well as display the nature of his weapons and the high degree of his skill. The steps, movements & use of his weapons are designed to warm up the body's muscles, survey the field of play & conceal the contestant's style of fighting. When the traditional Sarama music sounds around the ring it is recognised by all who are present as a symbol of deference & respect. Prior to the fight, the music helps to urge the fighter on, and rouses his spirit until he is ready to face his opponent in the boxing ring in manly combat.
The accompanying photograph shows a number of the Mongkons placed in a ceremonial vessel ready for the presentation ceremony, with other special objects.
The Mongkon (Mangala) is the traditional Thai head band which is worn by Muay Thai exponents while paying respect to their teachers and carrying out the ritual dance prior to the contest. It is usually made from a special cotton yarn which has been bound together in a certain way. The Mongkon is a sacred object which a Master of Muay Thai has previously ceremoniously blessed at a special Teachers Homage Ceremony and can contain Sacred Buddhist items such as a picture and inscriptions. In the past (and sometimes at the present time) they have had a sacred amulet wrapped in them which a monk has said special prayers for. Ancient warriors & fighters used to wear the Mongkons before any bout of combat because they believed it would bring them good luck and enable them to win the fight. This tradition has carried on through, right upto the present time.
Teaching Etiquette, Discipline & Respect
We as Muay Thai Teachers or Instructors have a duty to our students and Society in general to help teach younger generations all the traditional values so that they can contribute to society themselves, as well as teaching them all the pure techniques of Muay Thai. Because of the chance of mishap or accident during the course of learning the Martial Arts like Muay Thai which is a Contact Sport, there is a need for some guidelines, such as self control, discipline & most of all respect are all essential elements of this.
Generally speaking, one should not show anger or irritation, or offer blunt criticism. Anger not only breaks all the Rules about avoidance of conflict, but it also causes considerable, possibly irreparable, loss of face to whoever displays it, Criticism similarly smacks of confrontation. Such discourtesy may be met by studied politeness, but this only disguises the cost. Try to remember to stay calm in the face of frustration & difficulty. The Thai people applaud the quality of - 'Jai Yen' which literally means 'Cool Heart'.
Coolness coupled with respect and politeness does not represent weakness to Thais, but it is thought of as appropriate behaviour.
Although there may be some slight differences in the Ceremony with regards to the order of the Rituals and Buddhist prayers that are used, the following are the ones which are most commonly used in the I.M.T.F. During the Wai Kru Ceremony, each of the Trainees will Repeat the 'Age Old Oath' in Paying respect to the Masters (and Grand Masters) of Muay Thai. This is as follows:
In Muay Thai, the boxer will always preface the fight with Wai Kru and this tradition is still practised nowadays. This ceremony is usually performed to rousing Thai music from pipes and drums, and with the initial Ram Muay (the boxing movement). The Wai Kru & Ram Muay are useful, since the Boxer gains encouragement from paying homage to his Teachers and feels that he is not on his own: he has his Teacher & the other Teachers of the Muay Thai discipline to support him.The Wai Kru process will also give him time to concentrate & revise what he has learned, as well as display the nature of his weapons and the high degree of his skill. The steps, movements & use of his weapons are designed to warm up the body's muscles, survey the field of play & conceal the contestant's style of fighting. When the traditional Sarama music sounds around the ring it is recognised by all who are present as a symbol of deference & respect. Prior to the fight, the music helps to urge the fighter on, and rouses his spirit until he is ready to face his opponent in the boxing ring in manly combat.
The accompanying photograph shows a number of the Mongkons placed in a ceremonial vessel ready for the presentation ceremony, with other special objects.The Mongkon (Mangala) is the traditional Thai head band which is worn by Muay Thai exponents while paying respect to their teachers and carrying out the ritual dance prior to the contest. It is usually made from a special cotton yarn which has been bound together in a certain way. The Mongkon is a sacred object which a Master of Muay Thai has previously ceremoniously blessed at a special Teachers Homage Ceremony and can contain Sacred Buddhist items such as a picture and inscriptions. In the past (and sometimes at the present time) they have had a sacred amulet wrapped in them which a monk has said special prayers for. Ancient warriors & fighters used to wear the Mongkons before any bout of combat because they believed it would bring them good luck and enable them to win the fight. This tradition has carried on through, right upto the present time.
Teaching Etiquette, Discipline & Respect
We as Muay Thai Teachers or Instructors have a duty to our students and Society in general to help teach younger generations all the traditional values so that they can contribute to society themselves, as well as teaching them all the pure techniques of Muay Thai. Because of the chance of mishap or accident during the course of learning the Martial Arts like Muay Thai which is a Contact Sport, there is a need for some guidelines, such as self control, discipline & most of all respect are all essential elements of this.
Generally speaking, one should not show anger or irritation, or offer blunt criticism. Anger not only breaks all the Rules about avoidance of conflict, but it also causes considerable, possibly irreparable, loss of face to whoever displays it, Criticism similarly smacks of confrontation. Such discourtesy may be met by studied politeness, but this only disguises the cost. Try to remember to stay calm in the face of frustration & difficulty. The Thai people applaud the quality of - 'Jai Yen' which literally means 'Cool Heart'.
Coolness coupled with respect and politeness does not represent weakness to Thais, but it is thought of as appropriate behaviour.The Path of How to become a Master
The path to becoming a Master of Muay Thai is not as straightforward as one may think! For there is no easy route one can follow in this endeavour. Not even for those who have had the most experience, or even the greatest Champions of the Boxing Ring! The reasons for this are many and varied, but basically we can say that even the best of even the Greatest Champions is not guaranteed to be able to teach what he knows or pass on that invaluable knowledge. Likewise, someone who is a good Teacher in many aspects of the Art may not be able to instil in his Students the ability to become a Champion of the Ring. A Master or even Grand Master of Muay Thai needs to have all these qualities in 1 person, himself, and have many more! In fact, we can say that he must be the embodiment of the Art and live it every day! Some of the qualities he should have are - a full understanding of the History, Traditions and Techniques of Muay Thai & be able to communicate it to all levels of Students. He should be of good character & have respect for himself, others and all of life. He should be willing to totally commit himself to the endeavour of becoming a Master of this Martial Art no matter how long it may take. He should also show the same commitment to his Students! Even if a Teacher has most of the previously mentioned qualities - the experience, skills & knowledge of Muay Thai, or the commitment, this will not necessarily guarantee him of the accolade of Master. For there is 1 last hurdle he must clear, he will require the acceptance & acknowledgement of his abilities from his peers (other Masters). Unlike as in some other Martial Arts over the last few years, where people have reached a certain Level and then Granted themselves dubious Titles, Tradition still plays a very important role in Muay Thai and the candidates for this Title must have the full backing of a Committee of the current Masters as well as Representatives of the Department of Physical Education, Thailand.
The path to becoming a Master of Muay Thai is not as straightforward as one may think! For there is no easy route one can follow in this endeavour. Not even for those who have had the most experience, or even the greatest Champions of the Boxing Ring! The reasons for this are many and varied, but basically we can say that even the best of even the Greatest Champions is not guaranteed to be able to teach what he knows or pass on that invaluable knowledge. Likewise, someone who is a good Teacher in many aspects of the Art may not be able to instil in his Students the ability to become a Champion of the Ring. A Master or even Grand Master of Muay Thai needs to have all these qualities in 1 person, himself, and have many more! In fact, we can say that he must be the embodiment of the Art and live it every day! Some of the qualities he should have are - a full understanding of the History, Traditions and Techniques of Muay Thai & be able to communicate it to all levels of Students. He should be of good character & have respect for himself, others and all of life. He should be willing to totally commit himself to the endeavour of becoming a Master of this Martial Art no matter how long it may take. He should also show the same commitment to his Students! Even if a Teacher has most of the previously mentioned qualities - the experience, skills & knowledge of Muay Thai, or the commitment, this will not necessarily guarantee him of the accolade of Master. For there is 1 last hurdle he must clear, he will require the acceptance & acknowledgement of his abilities from his peers (other Masters). Unlike as in some other Martial Arts over the last few years, where people have reached a certain Level and then Granted themselves dubious Titles, Tradition still plays a very important role in Muay Thai and the candidates for this Title must have the full backing of a Committee of the current Masters as well as Representatives of the Department of Physical Education, Thailand.
The Official Wai Kru Ceremony Revived
The I.M.T.F with the Office of the National Culture Commission have re-introduced the Official Wai Kru Ceremony for both Muay Thai & Krabi Krabong after years of it being neglected. This neglect came about because of the fragmentation of Muay Thai Groups around the World, many of which did not completely understand the correct procedure to follow and the true meaning of Wai Kru. For, without the Wai Kru Muay Thai would not be the same, and would lack one of the most essential aspects of the Art! The very first Official Wai Kru Ceremony was held in the Janyingyong Gym at the National Stadium in Bangkok during 1994. President of this auspicious Ceremony was General Prem Tinsulanon, a Member of the King's Privy Council and also a Senior Statesman of Thailand. He was so impressed with this, that he suggested that it should be preserved and organised the same way every year for posterity, for the benefit of all peoples from around the World, who are interested in Traditional Thai Culture & Arts. The I.M.T.F and the Office of the National Culture Commission have now made all the arrangements for this to happen henceforth.
The I.M.T.F with the Office of the National Culture Commission have re-introduced the Official Wai Kru Ceremony for both Muay Thai & Krabi Krabong after years of it being neglected. This neglect came about because of the fragmentation of Muay Thai Groups around the World, many of which did not completely understand the correct procedure to follow and the true meaning of Wai Kru. For, without the Wai Kru Muay Thai would not be the same, and would lack one of the most essential aspects of the Art! The very first Official Wai Kru Ceremony was held in the Janyingyong Gym at the National Stadium in Bangkok during 1994. President of this auspicious Ceremony was General Prem Tinsulanon, a Member of the King's Privy Council and also a Senior Statesman of Thailand. He was so impressed with this, that he suggested that it should be preserved and organised the same way every year for posterity, for the benefit of all peoples from around the World, who are interested in Traditional Thai Culture & Arts. The I.M.T.F and the Office of the National Culture Commission have now made all the arrangements for this to happen henceforth.
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