Phra Chao Pharalakhaeng of Mae Hong Son

Abstract

The Phra Chao Pharalakhaeng, or Phra Maha Muni Buddha statue, is widely respected among Buddhist inhabitants in the Ayeyarwady-Salween river basin region, Myanmar. The Tai ethnic group, in particular, is an ethnic group that venerates the statue. Such beliefs are also reproduced through the legendary literary works, the story of the Buddha image simulation, and even their associated rituals. As seen from the 25 B.E. onwards, the image is enshrined as a centre of worship in this significant Tai town and is defined with prestige because of its Buddha statue. Despite Mae Hong Son being located in Thailand, in the year 1935 a replica image was brought to be enshrined at Hua Wiang temple, and defined as the notable statue of the province. However, since the province was a Tai community in the Kingdom of Siam during the creation of The Nation State, it resulted in the definition of Phra Parala Kaeng of Mae Hong Son being inevitably connected to the concept of Thainess. Since 2017, there has been an attempt to revive and hold a religious ceremony, in particular, the auspicious Buddha’s face washing act which is associated with the traditional rituals of the major Buddha statue, Phra Maha Muni in Mandalay. Such phenomenon is something worth investigating for further study.