November 28, 2024 – In a breathtaking display of cultural unity, over 50,000 participants gathered at the Khon Kaen City Pillar Shrine for one of Thailand’s most magnificent traditional ceremonies. The grand dance ritual, honoring the city’s 10 sacred entities, transformed the heart of Khon Kaen into a sea of yellow-clad dancers, their attire adorned with the symbolic Dok Koon flower.
The 10 sacred entities of Khon Kaen include: 1. Phraphuta Apaimongkol Samungkee; 2. Phraput Phralup; 3. Phrathat Kham Kaen; 4. Chao Por Mo Din Daeng; 5. Khon Kaen City Pillar Shrine; 6. Phra Nakhonsri Borirak; 7. Chaopor Mahaesak; 8. Phraputta Mahajak Kaennakhon (Wat Nong Waeng, Royal Monastery); 9. Luangpor Yai (Wat Klang); and 10. Phraputta Rungsiyopas Sukpipat (Wat Pa Saeng Arun)
The spectacular event, preceding the renowned International Silk Festival, marked a significant milestone in Khon Kaen’s 227-year history. As the sun began to set at 5:00 PM, Mr. Panthep Saokosol, Vice Governor of Khon Kaen, inaugurated this auspicious ceremony, leading thousands in paying homage to the city’s revered guardians.
Mrs. Natsamol Tanakulrungsarit, Vice President for Legal and Communications at KKU, highlighted the university’s involvement, stating: “The dance ceremony honoring the 10 sacred entities of Khon Kaen is a powerful symbol of unity among the people of Khon Kaen. This marks the sixth consecutive year that Khon Kaen University has participated in this event, with strong support from our administrators, staff, and students. This activity not only demonstrates our respect and faith in the sacred entities of Khon Kaen but also reflects our commitment to preserving the rich culture and traditions of the region. Additionally, it fosters community engagement, aligning with the university’s goal of creating a happy and harmonious environment while strengthening ties with the local community. We hope this event will continue to serve as a bridge connecting the university and the community in the future.”
Dr. Aunejit Panthongviriyakul, wife of the KKU President, who has participated in the ceremony for five years, expressed her pride and faith in the event: “As a member of Khon Kaen University, I am deeply honored to participate in this meaningful activity. It is a tribute to those who have contributed to the city of Khon Kaen and a way to show respect to Chao Por Mor Din Daeng, one of the 10 sacred entities. Each year, we have the opportunity to join this ceremony, which has been a tradition for 227 years since the founding of Khon Kaen. This reflects the faith and dedication of the KKU community in preserving this beautiful cultural heritage. It also brings blessings to individuals and the university while strengthening the bond between the university and the community.”
Asst. Prof. Dr. Araya Chaoruangrit, Dean of the Faculty of Technology at KKU, shared her thoughts: “This is the third year that my faculty and I have participated in this event. We feel proud every time we have the opportunity to be part of such an important activity. Khon Kaen is an integral part of Khon Kaen University, and vice versa. Therefore, collaboration between the university and the community is essential. This year, we joined the event with enthusiasm and unity, showcasing the beauty of Khon Kaen’s culture and traditions. It is an honor to contribute to an event that strengthens the connection between the university and the community.”
Other participants also shared their experiences:
Mr. Panthep Ananchareon, a staff member from KKU’s Strategy Division, expressed his joy in being part of the ceremony for the second year: “I am delighted to contribute to this event, even in a small way, by dancing to honor the Khon Kaen City Pillar Shrine. It brings blessings to my life. The collective effort of over 50,000 participants showcases the unity, love, and faith of the people of Khon Kaen, preserving our traditions and cultural heritage.”
Ms. Sunattha Leelawan, a 7th-grade student from Khon Kaen University Demonstration School, shared her excitement: “I am happy to use my dancing skills to participate in this ceremony alongside my mother, who works at KKU. It’s a meaningful family activity, and I’m proud to be part of this tribute to the Khon Kaen City Pillar Shrine.”
Ms. Wanpen Preechathanasit, a retired teacher from KKU Demonstration School, reflected on her first participation: “In the past, I couldn’t join due to work commitments. Now that I’m retired, I can dedicate my time to what I love—dancing. When invited by KKU staff, I immediately agreed. I’m thrilled and honored to be part of this cultural preservation effort. I’ll definitely join again next year.”
The dance ceremony honoring the 10 sacred entities of Khon Kaen is held annually on November 28, one day before the International Silk Festival. This year marks the 227th anniversary of Khon Kaen’s founding. The event is considered the largest dance ceremony in the province, with participants wearing yellow shirts adorned with the Dok Koon flower. The ceremony featured five traditional songs, each telling a unique story of Isan culture: Khon Kaen Wannee (Khon Kaen Today), Fon Puk Siew (Friendship Tying Dance), Dok Koon Sieng Khaen (Dok Koon and the Sound of the Khaen), Sao Isan Raw Rak (Isan Girl Waiting for Love), and Hug Sao Khon Kaen (Love the Khon Kaen Girl).
The event not only celebrated Khon Kaen’s cultural legacy but also reinforced the strong bonds between the university, the community, and their shared spiritual heritage, promising to inspire future generations to maintain these precious traditions.
