Creating New Values and Guidelines for Conserving and Perpetuating the Nattaya Bucha Tradition of Hae Pha Hom Chedi in Khlong Daen Community, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla Provinces

Abstract

This article aimed to (1) study the Nattaya Bucha tradition of Hae Pha Hom Chedi (the chedi-wrapping cloth procession with dance offerings) in Khlong Daen Community, (2) decode the creation of new values in the tradition, and (3) identify guidelines for its sustainable conservation and perpetuation. This qualitative research was conducted in Khlong Daen Community, an area bordering Hua Sai District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, and Ranot District, Songkhla Province. The key informants were 10 individuals involved in the tradition who had participated in it from 2023 to 2026, selected through purposive sampling. The research instruments comprised (1) a semi-structured interview form, (2) a focus group discussion guide, and (3) a non-participant observation record form. The instruments were validated for item-objective congruence (IOC) by three experts. The data were then collected, analyzed through content analysis, and presented through descriptive writing. The results revealed the following: (1) The Nattaya Bucha tradition of Hae Pha Hom Chedi originated in 2023, one year after the celebration of the chedi enshrining the Golden Buddha image, known as Phra Thong Khlong Daen. Driven by the faith of local villagers, the tradition has continued to the present day. (2) The community created the tradition by organizing activities on Makha Bucha Day. In the morning, a celebration is held for the cloth used in the procession. In the afternoon, the chedi-wrapping cloth procession takes place, inspired by the Hae Pha Khuen That procession at Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. This is followed by a dance offering to the Golden Buddha image, known as Nattaya Bucha, and the presentation of hanging votive ornaments. In the evening, earthen oil lamps are lit, followed by a candlelit circumambulation. (3) The community has conserved and perpetuated the tradition out of faith, with members participating continuously every year. Local youth are also encouraged to participate, particularly in the chedi-wrapping cloth procession and the dance offering to the Golden Buddha image. Nevertheless, communication should be enhanced to encourage greater participation among community members and youth, and online media should be developed to reach tourists.