Dramatic Nature in Thai Royal Tonsure Ceremony

Abstract

This article aims to examine the dramatic nature of the royal tonsure ceremony. The research was carried out using qualitative methods based on historical documents and accounts. It was found that the Thai royal tonsure ceremony, or Sogun ceremony, was carried out as a transition from infancy to adolescence. This ceremony derived from Brahman beliefs which stated that the topknot is where ‘Kwan’, or the soul is situated. The ceremony was arranged only for the prince or the princess of the Chao Fa and Praongchao rank, once they had reached the appropriate age. The ceremony aimed to bring auspice and prosperity. Conventionally, based on the royal court tradition, these ceremonies evidently share many elements with dramatic arts. There were five elements underscoring the dramatic character of the ceremony. Firstly, there was a plot. The ceremony’s plot involved some legends on Skandkumaar. Secondly, there were characters in the royal ceremony, especially demigods. Thirdly, there was the setting of Mount Krailash in the scene. Fourthly, the royal costume represented demigod status. Lastly, there were forms of entertainment and parades praising the king as  a demigod. Thus, the specific characters displayed and affirmed the influence of Brahman beliefs passed down through royal ceremonies in a dramatic form that is a fruitful subject for historical research as well as those studying drama.