Hae Nang Maew Khor Fon Ceremony Presentation By

Hae Nang Maew Khor Fon Ceremony

Presentation By Chudaporn Jenwattanamongkon m. 5/8 no. 4 Sawitree Sungjaisom m. 5/8 no. 35 To Teacher Jantana Kamanukul

Villagers in Ban Phrag district have always believed in asking for rain. In any year, when their land was dry, people gathered and paraded around the village with a cat called Nang Maew in Thai.

Most villagers have been familiar with this custom since they were young. Their ancestors have done this from generation to generation because farming depends on the natural rain.

The Hae Nang Maew Custom was held in the fifth and sixth month of the lunar month, especially when it didn't rain. The procession consists of : two people carrying a female cat that is afraid of water that is easily frightened and often cries; people carrying food given as a gift; dancers; and singers with long drums. They always sing “Nang Maew Khor Fon Song (a cat asking for rain), dance and play the drums joyfully around the village.

Some people throw water to the procession, but not on the cat. They also give rice, grilled fish, salty fish, boiled eggs, money, etc. The grilled fish is for the cat people eat the rest while walking and dancing. Rice, onion and garlic are offered to the monks. They also buy plates and bowls and bring them to the temple.