April 22, 2018
The world's only brutal monk procession tradition, Chaiyaphum, a must-visit city.
At Wat Ta Khaek, Moo 11, Ban Non Sala, Nong Tum Subdistrict, Phu Khiao District, Chaiyaphum Province.
In March 2018, 11 individuals participated in an ordination ceremony.
The brutal monk procession ceremony. The brutal monk procession ceremony at Ban Non Sila is an ancient tradition that has been practiced for hundreds of years, passed down through generations, and is unique in the world.
To allow villagers to participate in a collective ordination ceremony for young men in the village who have reached the age of 20.
This is a custom observed on the 1st waning day of the 6th lunar month every year. It allows children to ordain as monks to show gratitude to their parents.
The Brutal Procession: A Unique and Controversial Tradition
The "Brutal Procession" is a significant event in the village, where all residents participate in a unique and controversial tradition. This ceremony involves carrying a young man on a bamboo stretcher, violently shaking and tossing him in the air. This practice, passed down through generations, is believed to test the resolve and commitment of the future monk. The young man must endure the ordeal without falling from the stretcher, demonstrating his dedication to his parents and his readiness to embrace monastic life. Failure to remain on the stretcher signifies a lack of the necessary qualities for monkhood. This grueling procession, spanning over 3 kilometers, culminates at the temple where the ordination ceremony takes place.
YaiPearn Suphasawat
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 6:30 PM