PEOPLE AND SPACE IN “KIN-KHAO MAI” THE INTATION OF RICE FEAST OF KAREN, TEECHOCHE TAK PROVINCE

Abstract

“Kin-Khao Mai” of the “Intation of Rice Feast” of Pakakayo-Karen,Teechoche, Umpang District, Tak Province, illustrates how a common children’s playground can be transformed from a secular into a sacred space. Later it changes back to a playground. This process automatically brings about a stronger community and Pakakayo identity are strengthened by the ritual, which reduces the gap between the leader and people in the community. Moreover, many performances in the “Khao Lam Cookking Space” require the participation of every person in the community, resulting in unified public minds and communal sharing. The strength and sense of ownership of this ritual is indispensable in the preservation of the Pakakayo-Karen culture.