Fun Facts About the Thai Ramakien,Thai

Fun Facts About The Thai Ramakien

If you are a Thailand lover, you certainly know the Thai Ramakien which is the National Epic of Thailand. In short, the Ramakien is about Rama who spends 14 years in exile after being banished by his stepmother. There he lives with his consort Sita and his brother Lakshman. When Sita is abducted by the Demon King Ravana (Tosakanth) to Lanka, Rama and his brother rescue her with the help of the monkey warriors. Well, there are also some entertaining facts about the ‘Story of Rama’ which I like to bring to you here

Thai Ramakien Trivia

Did you know that the Ramayana was written by the Hindu sage Valmiki and that it implies that the epic possesses magic properties? Merely reading one verse of the Ramayana is supposed to guarantee a son to everyone previously lacking a male heir and it also implies that poor readers of the epic will become rich and that errant readers are purified. Scene from the Thai Ramakien depicted on a mural at Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) (photo credit: Amporn Konglapumnuay)

In the Rama Jataka, the Buddha is quoted as claiming he had been Rama in a previous life. The Rama Jataka is popular in Laos and some northeastern parts of Thailand where it is recited during ceremonies for the dead and crematations. Scene from the Ramakien depicted on a mural at Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) (photo credit: Jpatokal, wikimedia.org)

In the oldest version of Rama’s story which is probably the Dasaratha Jataka, Sita is featured as Rama’s sister. Sita in captivity in Lanka being tempted by Ravana. Chromoli Wellcome Library London, wikimedia.org

According to an ancient Thai belief, the Ramakien has magic properties. Thus, anyone who is able to read the Story of Rama over seven days and seven nights could command from the heavens three days and three nights of rainfall. A scene from the Ramakien, illustration at Wat Phra Kaew (photo: Sirinya Pakditawan)

The 16th century Chinese classic Hsi-yu-chi (Monkey) incorporated together with other material, Hanuman’s travels in pursuit of Sita. What is more, as early as 251 AD, a Jataka form of the Ramayana was rendered into Chinese. Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana at the Hermitage of Bharadvaja. Page from a dispersed Ramayana (Story of King Rama),ca. 1780, wikimedia.org

The Reamker which is the Cambodian version of the Ramayana takes about 50 hours to recite. An episode from the Cambodian Reamker, Phnom Phen, photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra, wikimedia.org

The Ramakien can be called an esoteric allegory of man’s spiritual quest (Rama) for Nirvana (Sita). In this way, it is also a purification of physical and intellectual faculties in which Tosakanth (Ravana) and his brothers are coarse passions and imperfections while the monkey warriors stand for virtues. Thai-French Singer Chin Chinawut as Khon (Ramayana) character Tosakanth (photo credit: pinterest.com)

Did you know about this trivia? I think the most entertaining fact is that the Thai Ramakien is supposed to possesss magic properties. Hence, maybe we should try to recite the Story of Rama and see what kind of magic we can work

Yours, Sirinya

(Reference: Ramakien, The Thai Ramayana. Naga Books Bangkok, 1993) Thai Taxi Altars & Talismans

In Thailand, a taxi ride may be an introduction to Thai culture and belief. Hence, it might even become a kind of religious experience regarding all the sacred objects and talismans that Thai taxi drivers arrange on their dashboard altars.

Thai Taxi Altars & Talismans

Amulets as blessings on the road*

You may aks yourself the reason for these talismans. Well, since the majority of Thai people are Buddhist, they believe in karma and that each person’s fate is predertermined by previous actions. In other words, this means that what happens to a person, happens because they have caused it with their actions. A typical yet unusual combination of talismans and mascots in a Bangkok taxi*

Thus, Thai people to some extent believe that safety, driver’s skills and speed are not necessarily related to the probability of having an accident. In other words, if someone becomes a victim in an car accident it is because of his negative karma that has finally caused this result. Strange as it may seem to a rational Westerner, the fate of a taxi might be influenced by the spirits of the passengers that ride in it. Thai Taxi Altars: More is More*

Therefore, on the one hand Thai taxi drivers turn to pok pong which is magic or spiritual protection against danger and harm and pong gun, on the other hand, to avoid accidents by minding practical safety measures such as wearing seat-belts and helmets. On the road with Buddha’s protection*

Nonetheless, pok pong plays an essential role to counter the negative influences radiated from the passengers. Thus, taxi drivers transform their cabbies into spiritual life insurances: they decorate their dashboards with numerous talismans and amulets. To bless their car, some drivers have a Yantra drawn by a monk on the ceiling.

Yantra painted on the ceiling of a cab*

Many drivers also hang Thai flower garlands and amulets on the rearview mirror to honour the journey goddess Mae Yanang. The dashboard may also harbour Buddha statues and pictures of enlightened monks and royal images that are considered auspicious. Flower garlands for blessing the journey goddess Mae Yanang*

Sometimes not only the inside of a taxi is decorated but also the outside. Thus, Taxi drivers may customise their cars with mascots, stickers, lamps and flags. They also serve as protections against negative karma. But well, finally it’s all about driving good and safe Thus, ‘Kup rod dee dee’ whereever you go!

In a nutshell, we can say that Thai taxi altars & talsimans are really special since they reveal a lot about Thai culture, auspicious belief and mentality. Hence, riding a taxi in Thailand can become a spiritual experience.

Yours, Sirinya

*photo credit: Thai Taxi Talismans, FB page

Further reading:

Dale Konstanz, Thai Taxi Talismans , Riverbooks 2012. Philip Cornwel-Smith & John Goss, Very Thai: Everyday Popular Culture, 2. ed. Riverbooks 2013.

‘Mementos For Father’s & New Year’s Gifts’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Market

This month’s topic of the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem (คลอง ผดุงกรุงเกษม) market is ‘Mementos For Fathers & New Year’s Gifts’. The market is situated next to the Government House in Bangkok’s Old City and takes place from 1-24 December 2015, daily from 10 am to 7 pm.

‘Mementos For Father’s & New Year’s Gifts’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Market

Divided into two periods, the first one from 1-12 December 2015 focussed on the theme of ‘Gifts for Father’s Day’. The second period from 13-24 December 2015 is all about ‘New Year’s Gifts’. For every item you purchase for 300 Baht per shop, you have the chance of getting a prize from the lucky draw station. In addition, you can also get free gift wrapping.

Since H. M. King Bhumibol’s Birthday was on 5th December, the market invites you to show loyalty to the King by writing a salute. After registering at the zone, you receive a piece of paper to write down a salute and hang on the Bodhi tree.

Write down a salute for H.M. King Bhumibol

Are you a flower and nature lover? Then I have some special items to present to you from this market festival. First, there are the adorable handmade ‘Real Flower Accessories’. Aren’t they amazing? The petals are dried and arranged, then coated with resin.

‘Real Flower Accessories’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem market festival Colourful necklaces made with real flowers

Maybe you are looking for a nice floral home decoration? Take a look at ‘Fah Artificial Flower’ from Supanburi Province. They offer a special price on their wonderful fabric flowers. ‘Fah Artificial Flower’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem

Another wonderful item and New Year’s present is the ‘Gift Box’ which contains beautifully arranged artificial flowers. A nice Gift Box with beautifully arranged artificial flowers

What is more, the market presents numerous amazing and unique Thai handicraft products such as these exquisite articles by Sukkee. By the way, Sukkee is one of the OTOP exporters that were awarded by the Ministry of Commerce. Exquisite articles by Sukkee

Thai handicraft products by Sukkee In fact, there are a variety of appealing products to satisfy shoppers such as these adorable handmade articles by ‘Thaisouvenir & Gift’. These turtles with crystals on their carapace are believed to symbolize and bring both longevity and prosperity to the owners.

‘Thaisouvenir & Gift’, turtles with crystals Amazing Thai handicraft at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, elephants with crystals

I also cherish the stunning Thai handicraft articles by “Jiam Sansajja Bronze Factory”.Take a look at these fine arts Thai handicraft by “Jiam Sansajja Bronze Factory”

“Jiam Sansajja Bronze Factory” at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem There are many more exotic products like these beautiful articles made from Thai mango trees by “Creationwww”.

Articles made from Thai mango trees by “Creationwww” Thai mango tree products by “Creationwww”

Last but not least, there are some very cute teddy bears from ‘Teddy Bear Thailand’ that offers a super special price only at this event. You can take pictures with a bunch of furry teddy bears and take one home. ‘Teddy Bear Thailand’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem

For more information, please check out: facebook.com/khlongphadungkrungkasem. For tourists, I recommend that you print this map out and show it to a taxi driver, adding that the market is situated next to the Government House (ทําเนียบรัฐบาล). Map & travel info

Summing up, we can say that the market at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem is an innovative attraction in Bangkok appealing to both locals and to tourists with amazing articles and Thai wisdom products. This month, the market offers some unique New Year’s Gifts and Father’s Day gifts. There is simply something for everyone’s taste. Thus, don’t miss the event!

Yours, Sirinya

A Jataka Tale: The Story of Prince Mahajanaka

I’d like to retell a Jataka Tale which is called ‘The Story of Mahajanaka’ (in Thai: ‘Phra Mahachanok’). I’ve come across this tale in the book ‘Folk Tales of Thailand’ by P.C. Roy Chaudhury. For a better understanding, Jataka Tales are stories about the previous lives of the Buddha. These are tales with a moral in which the Buddha shows some virtue.

A Jataka Tale: Prince Mahajanaka

In this life the Buddha was born as Prince Mahajanaka, the son of King Mithila of India. He was born after his father, the King, was killed by his brother Polajanaka. The Queen found harbour at a Brahmin’s house and Prince Mahajanaka was born and grew up there. When the Prince was 16 years old he wanted to see his father’s kingdom. Thus, he left his mother behind taking half of her jewels with him and sailed in the direction of Suvannabhumi. His aim was to make a fortune there.

Mahajanaka is saved by the Sea Goddess Manimekhala, Wat Yai Intharam, Chonburi (photo credit: buddha-images.com)

However, he got shipwrecked and the Goddess of the Sea, Manimekhala, rescued him. She took him to a mango-grove of Mithila, the former kingdom of Mahajanaka’s father. Since Polajanaka had died, his daughter, the Princess Sivali, was in charge of the kingdom. The throne would go to the man who married Sivali but she wanted her suitors to pass many tests. Thus, no one had taken this chance.

A scene from the Mahajanaka, Jataka tale, mural at Wat Yai Intharam, Chonburi (photo credit: buddha-images.com)

Nonetheless, some ministers were sent out and they met Mahajanaka. They realized that he must be of royal origin considering the auspicious symbols on his feet. Thus, Mahajanaka was prompted to take all the tests imposed by Princess Sivali. Since the Prince passed the tests, he was allowed to marry Sivali. They lived happily together and a son was born who later became the viceroy of the kingdom. Mahajanaka suffers a shipwreck, mural painting at Wat Yai Intharam (photo credit: buddha- images.com)

However, there was an event that changed Mahajanaka’s mind and life forever. One day, he realized that the mango trees in the grove were constantly plundered and then the barren ones were left alone. Hence, he came to the conclusion that it would be better to desire and possess less. If one had less worldly possessions, one would not desire and crave more.

This was when Mahajanaka gave up his kingdom and continued living as an ascetic. A short while later, he decided to become a hermit. Even though his wife tried to change his mind and the kingdom was threatened, King Mahajanaka vanished in the forest and his wife Sivali also became an ascetic in the royal gardens of Mithila. “Phra Mahachanok” as animation project in honour of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s Birthday (photo credit: nationmultimedia.com)

Finally, the Jataka tale about Mahajanaka has been very popular in Thai culture. In fact, this story is His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s favourite tale. Thus, last year the story was made into an animation project in honour of His Majesty’s Birthday. You may watch this film here

Yours, Sirinya

(Reference: P.C. Roy Chaudhury, Folk Tales of Thailand, SterlingPublishers, 1976)

The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, Thailand

Today I’d like to take you on a photographic journey to the Sanctuary of Truth (ปราสาทสัจธรรม) which is a temple construction in Pattaya, Thailand. The Sanctuary is also known as Wang Boran and Prasat Mai.

The Sanctuary of Truth

Entrance to the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, Thailand*

The special characterisitc of this temple is that it is completely constructed from wood. Thus, it is a great example of the art of Thai woodcarving. The sanctuary harbours numerous wooden scupltures from Buddhist andHindu mythology. The Sanctuary of Truth is an amazing example of Thai woodcarving*

However, in the top of the building, which is 105 meters high, there are also pieces of modern visionary art exhibited. In 1981, the temple complex was initiated by Lek Viriyaphant who is also the founder of the Erawan Museum in Samut Prakan. Actually, the Sanctuary of Truth is not completed yet and the year for its completion is supposed to be in 2050. Wang Boran, the Sanctuary of Truth, hall with royal images*

The temple construction is a unique and fine example of Thai architecture and it is also reminiscent of ancient Khmer buildings. There are four monumental towers representing images from the Buddhist and Hindu religions and mythologies of Asian countries like Cambodia, China, India and Thailand. Hence, the Sanctuary honours the ancient civilizations of Southeast Asia and their accomplishments. The construction of Wang Boran is reminiscent of Khmer architecture*

Therefore, the Sanctuary of Truth also gives credit to the seven creators which are of vital importance to man because without them, he cannot exist. These creators are Heaven, Earth, Father, Mother, Moon, Sun and the Stars. Thus, the purpose of this temple complex is to use art and culture in order to reflect Eastern philosophy and the ancient knowledge and vision of Southeast Asia. Visitors are invited to take a glimpse at and experience ancient knowledge, the connectedness of all beings and the cycle of life. Prasart Mai, Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya*

The Sanctuary of Truth is divided into different halls. Hence, the 1st hall is about the origin and stands for the earth, the four elements and the universe. According toHindu belief, Shiva is the God of Earth and Fire (beginning and end), Vishnu is the God of Water and thus the preserver of life, while Brahma is the God of the Wind and thus the creator. Trimurati is the God of the Universe and the universal aspect. Wang Boran stands for the earth, the four elements and the universe*

The 2dn hall represents the sun, moon and stars and thus symbolizes the created environment. The sun, moon and stars are also creators because without the sun there would neither be day nor night. The moon causes tideing and the stars are the reason for every cause. Hence, everything and even the creators are interconnected. Sanctuary of Truth, everything is interconnected even the creators*

The 3rd hall represents Parental Love which also stands for unconditional love, starting a family, tranquility and peace. In this way, the hall also represents father and mother who are givers. They do not ask anything in return for their love and the receivers, the children, are grateful and pay respect to their parents. The 4th hall stands for the world supporter and thus for the Bodhisattva who is the Buddha. His attributes are love, compassion, selflessness and service to others. What is more, this is also the basis for all religions. Bodhisattva, his attributes are love, compassion, selflessness and service to others*

Finally, the Centre Hall stands for the four noble truths that the Buddha has preached to all men. It means that human beings can understand the wheel of life and overcome suffering in order to reach Nirvana. The Centre Hall stands for the four noble truths that the Buddha has preached to all men*

Hence, the four spires on the top roof represent the four elements: there is a female celestial being holding a book representing the continuation of philosophy and morality. The other female celestial that holds a pidgeon in her hand stands for peace. The male celestial with a lotus flower represents the establishment and continuation of religion. Finally, the celestial holding the hand of a child and leading the elderly represents life. The Sanctuary of Truth, the four spires on the top roof represent the four elements*

Summing up, we may say that the Sanctuary of Truth is an amazing temple construction and a stunning example of Thai woodcarving that captures the ancient vision of the earth. I really recommend a visit to this place

Yours, Sirinya

*all photos in this post by Amporn Konglapumnuay

The Cult of Guman Thong, the Golden Child

Guman Thong (in Thai: กุมารทอง) means literally translated ‘Golden Child’ since ‘Guman’ means young boy and ‘thong’ is golden. It is a favourable and felicitous child spirit that is revered as a household deity in Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. The Golden Child is also called phi noi which means ‘little spirit’.

Kuman Thong figures at a shrine in Ratchaburi Province (photo: Xufanc wikimedia.org)

The Cult of Guman Thong

Guman Thong was first mentioned in ‘Khun Chang Khun Phaen’ (ขุนช้างขุนแผน) which is a Thai fairtale from the 18th century. In this story, Khun Phaen removes the stillborn foetus from his wife’s body in order to aquire a powerful, mesmerized spirit. This tale is a story of love and pathos, humour and black magic, among three childhood friends. Thai fairytale: Khun Chang Khun Phaen (photo: bangkokpost.com)

In this way, the cult came from a practice of necromancy and is connected to black magic which is called Saiyasat (ไสย ศาสตร์) in Thai. Thus, the original procedure to get a Guman Thong was appaling and horrible since the dead foetus was surgically removed from the woman’s body. Mixed with special herbs, the small body was then roasted while chanting magical incantations until it turned ‘golden’. Later, when the body was dried, it was pained with the lacquer called ‘Ya Lak’ and covered with gold leaves. Guman Thong effigies (photo: kumarnthong.com)

Thus, in order to make the Golden Child powerful, sorcery is needed and dark incantations are sung to work black magic inside. The function of the Guman Thong is to protect and warn its owner from harm and danger. What is more, the Golden Child is believed to have the ability to make its master invisible. Thus, the owner is also supposed to feed and care for the Golden Child. Phi noi has a taste for red and green soda and is thus pacified by these drinks. In this way, the Guman Thong is both a loyal spiritual assistant and a spooky adversary since he is the spirit of a stillborn baby. A reproduction of Guman Thong sold as a souvenir in a Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, Thailand, wrapped in a cloth featuring Nang Kwak (photo: Greg Field, wikimedia.org)

Today, Guman Thong is traditionally made from wood. It is a figure of a small child with a topknot. It should be noted that some Guman figures are soaked in an oil called Nam Man Phrai. This is oil extracted from the chin of a dead child or a person who died a violent death. However, nowadays this practice is illegal. Here is a video of a traditional Golden Child amulet blessing.

Summing up, we may say that Guman Thong is there for worship and the owner is supposed to take care of the statue because otherwise its power dissapears. Traditionally though, the practice of obtaining a Golden Child is rather appaling and related to black magic.

Yours, Sirinya ‘OTOP TO AEC’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Market

This month’s topic of the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem (คลอง ผดุงกรุงเกษม) market is about ‘OTOP TO AEC…Heritage of Thailand from Local to Global’. The market is situated next to the Government House in Bangkok’s Old City and takes place from 3-25 November 2015, daily from 10 am to 7 pm.

‘OTOP TO AEC’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem

‘OTOP TO AEC … Heritage of Thailand from Local to Global’ at the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem market

At this event you find many OTOP products from all over Thailand, for instance local OTOP food products but also exported OTOP goods which will rotate each week. The market offers something for everyone’s taste.

First let us take a look at some amazing food products – there are for example Riceberry and Sungyod brown rice. Riceberry is high in anti-oxidants and fiber. Thus, it helps lower cholesterol and has many other health benefits. Sungyod brown rice is very rare and considered to be a premium rice from the South. It is rich in protein and vitamins. You can get these products for a very special price at the market.

OTOP products: Riceberry and Sungyod brown rice Many cheap and cheerful groceries are available at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, such as Instant noodles MAMA, fruit juice, detergents and many more

In addition, the event offers numerous ready-to-eat delicacies such as Kalamare which is a delicious Thai dessert. Traditionally, it comes in black sticky form but nowadays it has various colors. Kalamare from auntie Tui is a famous one from Koh Samui. Kalamare, Thai dessert from auntie Tui at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem

If you are looking for something savoury, you may want to try Naam Prig Goong Siab. This is a Southern style dip with dried shrimp. Serve this dip with fresh vegetables, fermented egg, and steamed rice. OTOP Product: Naam Prig Goong Siab, Southern style dip

Another food speciality is Mo-Din Vermicelli with hot sauce from Baan Kradok, Nakonrachasima province Fresh seafood from Paknam, Suratanee Province! There are fresh huge oysters, super-sized prawns and many more delicious foods at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem

Well, if you’re still hungry and looking for something pastry- like, try the herbal fluffy rice flour cake of Baan Morakot from Sakaew Province. The ingredients are all natural and it tastes fantastic. OTOP Product: Herbal fluffy rice flour cake of Baan Morakot

Another option is the BIG-sized ROTI from Satool Province. This Roti is not only huge and crispy but also more delicious than common Roti. Only at this month’s ‘OTOP TO ACE’ festival.

However, the market also offers some crafts like unique Thai silk from different provinces in Thailand.

Unique Thai silk is an OTOP Product at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem There are also amazing artificial flowers from Chaiyaphum province. These flowers are very beautiful, exquisite and affordable. Good for home, office, and restaurant decorations.

Maybe you are looking for some effective health care products. I recommend you try the herbal hot packs which are relieving body pain and muscle sprains. The hot pack is easy to use, just put it into the microwave for about two minutes and press it right onto your painful spot. Herbal hot packs are OTOP Products

Try one of the products with bergamot. This herb has many benefits such as making the hair soft and beautiful. It has also blood purifiying properties

An innovative product is the Thai stone aromatherapy. This innovation is made from powder, herbs, and food coloring. It is used for creating a refreshing atmosphere so that you can relax enjoying this new format.

Thai stone aromatherapy- an innovation at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem

Last but not least, my favourite product of this month’s event is a lamp made from coconut shell. This OTOP product appreciates the value of coconuts. The lamp is unique and very beautiful. The market offers various products designed with coconut shell. Lamp made from coconut shell

In a nutshell, we can say that the market at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem is an innovative attraction in Bangkok appealing to both locals and to tourists with monthly changing topics and premium products. Thus, don’t miss the event!

Yours, Sirinya

A Jataka Tale: Angati the King of Videha

Today, I’d like to retell a Jataka Tale which is also called ‘The Story of Mahanaradakassapa’ and deals with Angati, the King of Videha. I’ve come across this tale in the book ‘Folk Tales of Thailand’ by P.C. Roy Chaudhury. For a better understanding, Jataka tales are stories about the previous lives of the Buddha. These are tales with a moral in which the Buddha shows some virtue.

A Jataka Tale: Angati the King of Videha

Angati was the King of Videha who summoned three of his ministers on a beautiful full-moon night in spring. Thus, he asked them for their suggestions how to spend such pleasant hours best. Hence, the ministers gave different kind of advice. One of them said the best way is to indulge in earthly pleasures whereas another suggested listening to the teachings of a wiseman. However, the minster named Alata said they should rather ask the ascetic Guna for advice.

The Jakata tale of the appearance of the Boddhisatva in form of Narada is depicted at Wat Suwannaram, Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand (photo: Heinrich Damm, wikimedia.org) Nonetheless, the King was disappointed by Guna’s advice because he did not seem wise. The King longed for advice on what to do to earn merits in order to get to heaven. Foolishly, Guna said that there were no consequences of sinful behaviour and that no other realms existed. The King Angati, however, believed Guna and thus went on indulging in his life of earthly pleasures.

The King had a clever daughter called Ruja. She advised her father against Guna’s misleading instructions. However, the King would not listen to his daughter. Thus, Ruja prayed vehemently to the Gods that they might change his father’s mind. This was when the great Boddhisattva disguised himself as the ascetic Narada. He went to see the King and thus finally, the King could be converted by Narada’s counsel.

Mural of Vessantara Jataka, 19th century, Wat Suwannaram, Thonburi district, Bangkok, Thailand (photo: Heinrich Damm, wikimedia.org)

Finally, we may note that this Jataka tale, the appearance of the Boddhisattva in form of Narada, is depicted in a mural at Wat Suwannaram in Thonburi district, Bangkok. If you have the chance to visit this temple, I recommend you take a look at the amazing murals

Yours, Sirinya

(Reference: P.C. Roy Chaudhury, Folk Tales of Thailand, SterlingPublishers, 1976)

‘Top SMEs Products from Thailand’ at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Market

This month’s topic of the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem (คลอง ผดุงกรุงเกษม) market is about ‘Top SMEs Products from Thailand’ (สุดยอด SMEs ของดีทั่วไทย). The market is situated next to the Government House in Bangkok’s Old City and takes place from 2-25 October 2015, daily from 10 am to 7 pm. ‘Top SMEs Products from Thailand’ at the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Market

At this event you find supreme but also alternative products from many shops. It is also an opportunity to meet and greet Thai superstars who own small and medium businesses. Like always, this awesome market offers something for everyone.

Here is something for all animal lovers – let’s meet the adorable sheeps and goats of Suriya Farm from Nakorn Ratchaseema. You are allowed to feed the goats and sheeps, play and take pictures with them. I guess many children would like to pet these cute beings What is more, there are many selected products from Suriya Farm such as goat milk, cosmetic products and sheep dolls which you can purchase at the market. Meet the adorable goats and sheeps of Suriya Farm from Nakorn Ratchaseema

I really love Coco Easy. This is an innovative way of consuming coconut and thus a must-have for me! Coco Easy truly makes eating coconut convenient. It tastes great with supreme export quality. Coco Easy – makes coconut eating convenient

What would be the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem market without some amazing cosmetic products! Do you know that the facial sunscreen spray “Fourface” contains starfish collagen extracts and mineral water? These ingredients help to moisturize your skin. Since the texture is not greasy, it is easily absorbed by the skin. Ms. Four Sakonrat, the owner of this brand, offers a special price of 750 Baht exclusively for this event. Facial sunscreen spray “Fourface”, get this product at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Market

Great products by ELE brand like this Bubble Cleanser are available at a special price

However, you can also find useful basic foods like eggs and cooking oil at the market. The products are good and cheap – you can purchase 30 eggs for 85 Baht and 3 bottles of cooking oil for 100 Baht, for instance.

Purchase 30 eggs for 85 Baht, and 3 bottles of cooking oil for 100 Baht at the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Market

In addition, you can buy other basic ingredients for cooking like different kinds of sauces for a small price. They also offer ‘buy 1 get 1 free for every item’. This is a great offer! ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ – Cooking ingredients and different sauces

Last but not least, there is also something for the serious side of life: At the SME service center you can find a competent suite of consulting services. They provide credit checking, bookkeeping for your income and much more. At the SME service center you can find a competent suite of consulting services

Finally, we can say that the market at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem is an innovative attraction in Bangkok appealing to both locals and to tourists with monthly changing topics concerning Thainess and supreme products. I think Coco Easy is my top product this month

Yours, Sirinya

The Myth of Mae Phosop: The Rice Goddess of Thailand

Worshipping goddesses like Mae Phosop (โพสพ), the rice goddess, has been a part of Thai culture and tradition since prehistoric times. Even though the role of female deities became subservient since the introduction of male-dominated faiths such as Hinduism, Brahmanism and the official religion Buddhism, the power of the matriarchal spirit has always played an important role in Thailand. She is also known as Mae Khwan Khao (แม่ขวัญข้าว), the ‘Mother of Rice Prosperity’.

The rice goddess of Thailand

Thailand ’s rice goddess. Note that the letters seen on top right are Khmer script (photo credit: devata.org)

Mae Phosop is considered the spirit or soul of rice, that is the main staple of the Thai diet. Thus, it is a common belief that without rice, a person cannot sustain and live long. The myth and legend of the rice goddess says that she is badly mistreated by an old widow. Hence, she flees and finds shelter with a friend. This friend is a fish that leads the goddess into the deep forest where no human being can find and reach her.

A Mae Phosop statue in Chiang Mai (photo credit: Xufanc, wikimedia.org)

As a consequence, all human beings begin to suffer from the absence of Phosop and try all that is humanly possible to find her. Finally, the fish advises the goddess to return to the humans because the next Lord Buddha will soon come to the world. Thus, the blessing of the rice goddess is needed since the Buddha will not be able to fulfil his duty on earth without Mae Phosop. Hence, she comes back to the community of mankind to stay forever. However, before her return, the goddess asks human beings to promise her to treat her with respect forever after. In return she promises to bring abundant crops to mankind. Man keeps his word and so does Mae Phosop. A Thai paddy field, abundant crops are vital for mankind (photo credit: Takeaway, wikimedia.org)

This story explains Thai fertility rites concerning the cultivation of rice. Thus, we may be justified in claiming that the relationship between humans and the ‘soul’ of rice is mutually dependent. Hence, there is also a saying that ‘The virtues of rice are 69, while the virtues of the Lord Buddha are only 59’. This proverb speaks for itself and what is more, it also seems to point out the conflict between animistic beliefs and Buddhism. In addition, it reveals an intrinsic connection and relationship between mankind and what sustains its source of life. A depiction of the Thai Mae Phosop (photo credit: devata.org)

When the spirit of the rice goddess is invocated, the person who performs the rite will address the spirit with sweet, kind and respectful words. The invocation runs as follows:

‘Dear Spirit of Rice, Mother Phosi, Mother Phosop, Mother of the Nine Stars, Mother Chanthewi, Mother Si Dusada, come, please, come’ A painting of the Thai rice spirit (photo credit: devata.org)

Mae Phosop is addressed by the title of mother mae( ) who provides food for her children (i.e. mankind). Thus, people are her children and they treat her with respect as they would their natural mother. Here is a clip demonstrating how the spirit in invocated. By the way, according to Thai tradition, children are also taught to Wai, i.e. put their hands in the position of obeisance and respect, after finishing their meal.

Summing up, we may say that on the one hand, the myth of the rice goddess in Thailand shows how animistic and Buddhist belief were combined in the past. On the other hand, it also reveals mankind’s dependency on a good rice harvest. Hence, people feel grateful to the rice goddess and behave respectful towards her. If you want to experience Thailand and it’s culture first hand, please check out Thailand Tour Packages.

Yours, Sirinya

(Reference: Siraporn Nathalang, Thai Folklore. Insights Into Thai Culture, Chulalongkorn University Press, 2000)