Picture this: the vibrant, spirited tradition of “Um Phra Dam Nam,” which translates to “the bathing of a Buddha image,” is set to cast its mesmerizing spell over Phetchabun once more. Come October 2, the picturesque Pa Sak River adjacent to Wat Bot Chanamarn will be the stage for an event steeped in history and reverence (Photo: SOONTHORN KONGWARAKHOM).
This annual spectacle, unique to Phetchabun, is anticipated to lure about 200,000 visitors, pouring approximately 80 million baht into the local economy over its 10-day run. Kicking off on the first new moon of the 10th lunar month, this year, it aligns perfectly with the dawn of October 2, shared by Mr. Seksan Niyompeng, the dynamic mayor of Muang Phetchabun municipality.
Tradition dictates that the provincial governor extends an invitation to the sacred image of Phra Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha from Wat Tri Phum to join in the ceremony. This is no ordinary invitation; it involves a ceremonial boat journey over a kilometer long, culminating at Wat Bot Chanamarn. Once there, the statue is symbolically plunged into the river by the governor—an act believed to confer blessings and maintain nature’s balance.
“This tradition has been an integral part of our heritage for over 500 years,” Mr. Seksan shares with pride. “The Ministry of Culture recently recognized it as a national cultural heritage item in 2023.” This year, marking the grand occasion of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday, the Buddha image plunging will occur nine times—three more than the usual six—to signify the auspicious celebration.
The legend behind the tradition is as enchanting as the event itself. It all began when a bronze statue of a seated Buddha, 46 centimeters tall and 33 centimeters wide, miraculously surfaced from the swirling eddies of the Pa Sak River during a thunderstorm. Despite the tumult, the Buddha image, known as Phra Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha, didn’t sink but was elevated by the whirlpool. The statue was enshrined in Wat Tri Phum, but even more mysteriously, reappeared at its original spot in the river the following year on the new moon of the 10th lunar month.
To honor this marvel, the locals initiated the annual “Um Phra Dam Nam” festival, symbolically returning the statue to the river each year hoping for blessings of abundance, harmony, and protection from epidemics. Today, the ceremonial spot resides at Wat Bot Chanamarn, the very place where the statue was initially found.
“This Buddha statue holds unparalleled reverence in our province,” Mr. Seksan notes. Last year, the ceremony drew about 150,000 attendees over the event’s duration, each spending an average of 500 baht, thus injecting around 50 million baht into the local economy. This year, the event’s popularity is further amplified by the star power of celebrities and social media influencers.
“We anticipate welcoming 200,000 people this year, generating up to 80 million baht,” says Mr. Seksan, his eyes twinkling with excitement.
The statue, holding a pot of medicine or holy water in its hand, is believed to possess healing properties, according to Wisan Khositanon, president of the Phetchabun Provincial Cultural Council. “Praying to Phra Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha is said to aid in curing illnesses and bringing success in both personal and professional life. While faith has always been the linchpin of this ceremony, the healing aspect has recently captured heightened attention, especially among celebrities,” Mr. Wisan explains. This newfound focus has further broadened the appeal of the event, boosting Phetchabun’s tourism in the process.
The grand celebration, scheduled from September 27 to October 6, will feature a 3,000-person traditional dance procession at Phutta Utthayan Phetchabura Park at 6 PM. Additionally, the governor will escort the Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha statue through the city on October 1 at 9:09 AM in a vibrant procession that aims to garner public respect for the revered Buddha statue.
The highlight, the “Um Phra Dam Nam” ceremony, will be held at the pier of Wat Bot Chanamarn on the Pa Sak River on October 2 at precisely 10:09 AM. “Beyond its religious undertones, this tradition also reflects ancient wisdom aimed at preserving clean water and fostering community harmony,” Mr. Wisan thoughtfully concludes.
It’s fascinating how such deep-rooted traditions still hold value in modern times.
I agree! But I wonder if the influx of tourists is really good for the local culture.
That’s a valid concern. Cultural preservation can sometimes be at odds with tourism.
Tourism brings money and offers locals opportunities. As long as respect is maintained, it’s a win-win.
200,000 visitors sounds like a logistical nightmare. How do they manage that many people?
I’m sure the local government has a plan in place. Events like this are quite organized.
Combination of faith and commerce might keep everything smooth. People are cooperative during spiritual events.
I hope so, but with increased numbers every year, things could get overwhelming quickly.
I’m skeptical about the healing properties of the statue. Sounds like superstition.
Faith has its own power. It’s not just about physical healing but also about spiritual well-being.
It’s hard to argue with someone’s personal beliefs, but scientifically, it doesn’t hold much ground.
Exactly, personal belief is one thing, but we shouldn’t mislead people about physical healing.
The ceremony seems beautiful, but is increasing the number of statue plunges really necessary?
It’s for a special occasion, marking the King’s 72nd birthday. Traditions evolve, don’t they?
True, I just hope it doesn’t dilute the ceremony’s original meaning.
It’s amazing to see cultural heritage preserved and adapted. This festival sounds incredible.
We’re proud of it! But balancing tourism with tradition is always tricky.
Why can’t this money be used to improve actual infrastructure instead of on festivals?
Cultural festivals bring in tourism and revenue that can be channeled into infrastructure improvements.
I hope so, but too often the funds just circle back into more tourism-focused endeavors.
I attended last year and it was mesmerizing! Planning to go again this year.
Lucky you! Any tips for first-timers?
Get there early, and make sure to stay hydrated. It can get very crowded!
The legend behind Phra Phuttha Maha Dhamma Racha is truly captivating. Love these historical stories.
All these tourists must be horrible for the environment. Is there any mention of sustainability efforts?
Good point! Large events often neglect the environmental impact they create.
Exactly. They should ensure the festival is eco-friendly, maybe through waste management and clean energy.
Would love to see more international coverage of such rich cultural events!
Agree! Global exposure could bring even more interest and respect for such traditions.
How do the locals feel about the commercialization of their tradition?
Mixed feelings. We love the attention but worry about losing the event’s true essence.
That’s understandable. Finding a balance must be challenging.
Phetchabun should use this platform to also highlight other unknown aspects of its culture.
Absolutely! There’s so much more to our province than this one festival.
Great learning opportunity for my students about culture and tradition. Will use this in class!
Even though I’m not religious, I find the communal spirit behind these events inspiring.