Blessings of the Naga
Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day
Intro: the Belief in the Royal Ploughing Ceremony
In Buddhism and Brahmanism, the Naga is regarded as a symbol of fertility, deeply embedded in Thai society and agricultural traditions. The belief in the Naga is closely tied to the practice of farming, particularly in the connection between water and crops. This reverence extends to various aspects of daily life, including temple art, clothing, and cultural traditions such as the Isaan Rocket Festival and The End of Buddhist Lent Festival. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient royal ritual rooted in Brahmanic beliefs, marking the official beginning of the planting season and is considered a significant occasion. The ceremony is also linked to the Naga, symbolizing hopes for prosperity and good fortune for farmers.
Concept of the Performance
The performance presents the Raek Na Khwan ritual, the sacred first day of planting. This ritual is closely tied to the rainy season, with the Naga believed to play a crucial role in ensuring abundant rainfall. Farmers regard the Naga as both a guardian of water and a symbol of fertility, invoking its blessings for a prosperous harvest.
4 May 2025