ROI ET, 18 February 2014: Tourism Authority of Thailand supports provincial authorties to promote the Bun Phawat Merit-Making Fair, 7 to 9 March, at Srinagarindra Park and Bueng Phalan Chai.
First held in 1991, during the fourth lunar month, the annual festival or “Bun Phawet” merit making showcases the identity and pride of Northeast people.
It has particular appeal for Buddhists and students of religion, who are interested in understanding the culture of the Northeast, which differs dramatically from the urban and tourist centres of the country.
“Phawet” comes from the term “Phra Wes” (Phra Wessandon), the name of the last reincarnation of the Lord Buddha before his birth as Prince Siddhartha.
Salient features are the sermon on Phra Wessadon of Thet Maga Chat (The Great Birth), which consists of 13 episodes that are completed within a day.
There is a saying that invites the religious to “go to khao poon and gain merit at Bun Phawet”, but for many the event is an opportunity to enjoy the processions of Phra Uppakhut, linked to the 13 episodes of the great sermon Mahachat, and the opportunity to dine on free khao poon, a Northeastern style dinner. As with all Northeast festivals there is plenty of boisterous entertainment and music.