The followers of Chao Pho Khao Yai are organising the 59th Chao Pho Khao Yai Cha-Am Festival between 20th and 24th June, centered at the Cha-Am Municipality.
According to Cha-Am Mayor Mr. Nukul Pornsomboonsiri, Chao Pho Khao Yai Cha-Am is a highly revered sacred figure for Cha-Am and its neighboring districts.
As reflected by Cha-Am’s motto, “The City of Clear Seawater, White Beach, Sacred Chao Pho Khao Yai and Generous People”, legend has it that Chao Pho Khao Yai was actually a Chinese emigrant who came to Cha-Am.
He was highly respected by local people because of his knowledge about medicine. When he passed away a shrine was erected for him behind the Cha-Am Railway Station so that people could pay him respect.
The Chao Pho Khao Yai Cha-Am shrine is frequently visited when local people would like their wishes to come true. It is said that most good wishes come true if the person pays the homage properly, added Mr. Nukul.
To express gratitude to Chao Pho Khao Yai, since 1960, the local people of Cha-Am have organised this festival in the City every year.
This year’s event features a big opening ceremony on Thursday 20th June at 12 noon. The image of Chao Pho Khao Yai will be paraded in a big procession around Cha-Am. The image will then be enshrined temporarily in front of Cha-Am Municipality.
At 8.30 p.m., Mr. Nukul will host an official opening of the festival along with firework displays, stage performances, outdoor movies and Chinese opera.
Each day from 21st to 24th June from 7 a.m. to 12 noon, there will be a ceremony to pay homage. During the night there will be stage performances, outdoor movies and Chinese opera.
Ceremonies pay respect to the Spirits will take place in front of the Chao Pho Khao Yai’s shrine. On the final day at midnight, the image will be returned to the shrine.
Finally, the Cha-Am Mayor would like to invite both visitors and local people of Cha-Am to attend this.
