MECHANISMS FOR DRIVING THE CREATIVE ECONOMY BASED ON BUDDHIST CAPITAL AND COMMUNITY CULTURAL CAPITAL IN NAKHON PATHOM PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed 1) To examine the potential of local communities in Nakhon Pathom Province to develop participatory cultural entrepreneurship, and 2) To enhance economic value based on Buddhist and cultural capital while developing creative tourism activities that connect religious and cultural spaces within the province. The research employed a participatory action research (PAR) approach. Data were collected from 76 monks and community members selected through purposive sampling using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation. The data were analyzed through content analysis and presented in a descriptive and narrative form, employing thematic coding with verbatim quotations of key statements. The findings revealed that 1) Wat Mai Sukontharam community and its connected areas possess high potential in preserving and revitalizing the Atthami Bucha Day tradition and local wisdom, such as banana stalk carving, the making of kwad-talai (traditional fireworks), and ceremonial processions. These activities reflect strong collective capacity, a distinctive cultural identity, and effective linkage with local development and tourism policies. 2) Economic value enhancement was achieved through knowledge development initiatives, including the creation of knowledge packages on banana stalk carving to conserve and further develop local wisdom, along with learning activities for youth and tourists, thereby generating added value for the community. and 3) The development of creative tourism activities encompassed learning experiences related to local wisdom, handicrafts, religious and cultural learning sites, and the sufficiency economy philosophy, contributing to strengthening the cultural tourism image of Nakhon Pathom Province. Overall, the driving mechanism of the creative economy emerged from collaborative engagement through the “Bowon Power” (Home-Temple-State) partnership, which integrates religious, cultural, and intellectual capital with innovation to form cluster-based networks. This collaboration extends existing production and services into new forms, emphasizing conservation and the creation of soft power to sustainably enhance the local economy and cultural heritage.