Wai Khru and Khrop Khru Ceremony Project, Art Education Program

Wai Khru and Khrop Khru Ceremony Project, Art Education Program

          The commemoration of Teacher’s Day and Thai sacred ceremony to indoctrinate the art pupils are historic cultural traditions and rituals that have been passed down from ancient times, which play an important role in fostering knowledge and comprehend Thai culture for the next generation. Additionally, it holds spiritual significance for artists. This ceremony is not only a way to honor the teachers who imparted knowledge, but in addition to expressing gratitude. Furthermore, it is preserving traditions that are part of reginal wisdom.

          Faculty of Education, Burapha University acknowledges the importance of conserving Thai traditions and culture, including preserving valuable local wisdom. Organizing the event of commemoration of Teacher’s Day and Thai sacred ceremony to indoctrinate the art pupils is one of the activities to promote cultural and social sustainability which align with the Sustainable Development Goals in 11.2.6. This led to the focuses on documenting and conserving cultural legacy such as folktales, tradition, language and knowledge, including the heritage of diasporic communities. The commemoration of Teacher’s Day is considered a significant aspect of this legacy that aids in conserving and transmitting cultural values and knowledge to future generations.

Faculty of Education, Burapha University tends to the support the documentation and preservation of these cultural heritages in order to raise awareness in society, which is part of encourage cultural sustainability at the level of locally and nationally.

The objectives of the project are:

  1. To provide students of the Art Education Program, Faculty of Education, Burapha University, as well as interested participants, with spiritual grounding and encouragement in their studies and artistic creations.
  2. To preserve and pass on the cultural heritage, rituals, and beliefs that reflect the unique and valuable traditions of Thailand.

          This project aims to uphold and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Thailand through the Wai Khru and Khrop Khru Ceremony. The event consists of four main rituals:

  1. Buddhist Ceremony
  2. Sacred Offering Ritual to Lord Ganesha
  3. Khrop Khru and Wai Khru Ceremony
  4. Ganesha Chaturthi Ceremony

          The project is organized by the Art Education Program, Faculty of Education, Burapha University. The primary target groups include undergraduate students of the Art Education Program, alumni, faculty members, university personnel, and interested members of the public. Participants are invited to join these sacred rituals to receive spiritual blessings and good fortune.

Additionally, the project places importance on documenting and conserving the cultural heritage and traditional wisdom of these sacred ceremonies, ensuring their continuation for future generations.

Project Impacts

The expected impacts of this project are:

  • To bring auspiciousness and encouragement to all participants, especially students pursuing studies in the arts.
  • To instill a sense of reverence and gratitude towards teachers who impart knowledge, nurturing the value of “Kreng Jai” (deep respect) in Thai culture.
  • To provide spiritual grounding and motivation for students, alumni, and participants in their academic journey and artistic endeavors.
  • To preserve and pass on the unique rituals, beliefs, and cultural identity of Thailand, fostering cultural appreciation among the younger generations.

Project Duration / Event Date

October 9–11, 2024

Project Coordinators

  • Prof. Dr. Trin Kittikanampol
  • Prof. Dr. Boonserm Watanaki