Wet worship: A photo captures the mesmerizing ‘Um Phra Dam Nam’ ceremony, set to begin on Oct 2 in the Pa Sak River, at the pier of Wat Bot Chanamarn in Phetchabun’s Muang district. (Photo: SOONTHORN KONGWARAKHOM)
The age-old tradition of “Um Phra Dam Nam,” translating to “the bathing of a Buddha image,” in Phetchabun is poised to draw a staggering 200,000 visitors. This event, spanning a delightful 10-day period, is estimated to generate an impressive 80 million baht. The festivity kicks off this Friday, on a new moon night, falling on Oct 2 this year according to the 10th lunar month, shared Mr. Seksan Niyompeng, the spirited mayor of Muang Phetchabun municipality.
In keeping with tradition, the provincial governor ceremoniously invites the image of Phra Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha from Wat Tri Phum in Muang district. Transported by boat, this revered Buddha image is then ceremonially plunged into the waters from the pier of Wat Bot Chanamarn, approximately a kilometer away from its home temple.
“The tradition,” Mr. Seksan passionately explained, “has been a treasured inheritance for over 500 years.” Last year, the Ministry of Culture proudly designated this ceremony as a national cultural heritage item.
To mark the extraordinary occasion of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday, this year’s ceremony will feature the Buddha image plunging ritual nine times, rather than the usual six, adding an extra layer of auspicious significance.
The legend behind this tradition is as enchanting as the ceremony itself. It began when a Buddha image mysteriously emerged from the Pasak River. A peculiar day unfolded when fishermen failed to catch any fish, and the once-clear skies turned ominously dark. Thunderstorms and a downpour ensued, forming eddies and a whirlpool in the river. Instead of being swept to the riverbed, a bronze Buddha statue was miraculously lifted by the vortices. The delicate statue, standing at 46 centimeters tall and 33 centimeters wide, was eventually enshrined in Wat Tri Phum.
Named Phra Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha, the statue vanished the following year on the new moon of the 10th month, only to be rediscovered at its original river spot. To honor this event, the locals initiated an annual festival, returning the image to the river, seeking blessings for nature’s balance, happiness, and protection from epidemics, according to Mr. Seksan.
The exact location where the Buddha image was found is now Wat Bot Chanamarn, the venue for the annual ceremony. “The Buddha statue holds unparalleled reverence in the province,” he remarked.
Last year’s ceremony attracted around 150,000 attendees over the 10-day event, each spending an average of 500 baht, thus driving approximately 50 million baht into the province’s economy. This year, with an updated twist capturing the attention of celebrities and influencers, the event is predicted to attract an even larger crowd.
“We anticipate welcoming 200,000 visitors, generating an economic boost of up to 80 million baht,” Mr. Seksan shared, his excitement palpable.
A unique feature of the Phra Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha statue is the pot of medicine or holy water it holds, symbolizing healing. Mr. Wisan Khositanon, president of the Phetchabun Provincial Cultural Council, mentions that many believe praying to this Buddha can cure ailments and bring success in life and work.
“In the past, the ceremony’s core focus was faith,” Mr. Wisan recollected. However, in recent times, the narrative has shifted towards healing, sparking heightened interest, particularly among celebrities. As a result, the ceremony has drawn considerable crowds, amplifying the province’s tourism appeal.
Among the highlights of the Sept 27 – Oct 6 celebration will be an exquisite 3,000-person traditional dance procession at Phutta Utthayan Phetchabura Park at 6 pm. On Oct 1, at precisely 9:09 am, the Phetchabun governor will lead a procession featuring the Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha statue from Wat Tri Phum through the heart of the city.
“Our aim is to provide an opportunity for the public to pay their respects to the Buddha statue,” he emphasized.
The much-anticipated “Um Phra Dam Nam” ceremony will unfold at the pier of Wat Bot Chanamarn on the Pa Sak River on Oct 2 at 10:09 am.
“Viewed differently, this tradition also embodies ancient wisdom aimed at preserving clean water and fostering community unity,” Mr. Seksan concluded, adding a profound layer of meaning to this vibrant celebration.
This ceremony looks fascinating, but I wonder how environmentally friendly it is to have so many people gathered around the river.
I’m sure they take necessary precautions. It’s all about tradition and respect. Plus, it brings a lot of revenue to the area.
Respect and tradition are important, but if it harms the environment, we need to find a balance. Festivals like this can sometimes lead to pollution.
Good point. Maybe they should invest a part of the generated revenue back into conservation efforts.
I agree that investing in conservation would be a responsible move. Maybe the organizers already have plans for that?
Why do people always try to ruin cultural events with environmental concerns? It’s just once a year.
I am skeptical about 200,000 visitors showing up. These numbers always seem inflated for publicity.
You might be right, but Phetchabun has managed large crowds in the past without issues.
Even if the numbers are inflated, the festival still attracts a huge crowd. It’s great for the local economy!
True, but inflated numbers can set unrealistic expectations for the infrastructure and cause logistical nightmares.
The legend behind this festival is so magical! I love how they incorporate the story into the ceremony every year.
Legends and rituals really do add a unique charm to such events. It keeps history alive.
While charming, we should also be critical and consider how these stories influence people’s actions and beliefs.
That’s a good point. Legends can shape our culture and actions for better or worse.
This event demonstrates a fascinating blend of faith, cultural heritage, and modern tourism dynamics. Worth analyzing for an anthropological study.
Totally agree! The shift from pure faith to a focus on healing and tourism is worth investigating.
I’ve actually been working on a paper about it. The economic and cultural impacts are profound.
Would love to read your paper when it’s published. There’s so much to unpack in such traditions.
Nine times instead of six for the King’s birthday? Seems like overkill to me.
I think it’s a beautiful gesture to honor His Majesty. It adds to the significance of the event.
Why not? It’s a once in a lifetime occasion.
I get it’s symbolic. Just hope it doesn’t dilute the ritual’s meaning.
Can’t wait for the 3,000-person dance procession. Such a display of unity and cultural pride!
Such ceremonies might be good for tourism, but aren’t they reinforcing superstitious beliefs? Healing waters and blessings?
Superstitions or not, they play a significant role in people’s lives. If it makes them happy and hopeful, what’s the harm?
Sometimes these beliefs can prevent people from seeking real medical help. We should be cautious.
This reminds me of similar ceremonies back in my home country. Cultural rituals do have a strong community bonding effect.
An 80 million baht economic boost sounds overly optimistic. I wonder if it’s solid research or just optimistic projections.
Even if it’s an optimistic estimate, cultural events like these do pump in significant revenue.
Visited last year and it was incredible. Whether or not the revenue figures are accurate, the atmosphere can’t be matched.
I am planning to go this year. Any tips for first timers?
Avoid peak hours if you can. The early morning ceremonies are less crowded but equally magical.
Don’t forget to bring a bottle for some holy water! It’s said to be really beneficial.