The main objective of folk play seen in various festivals is to create
the solidarity of the community members as well as enjoyment for activities
in the festivals. For instance, regarding Songkran Festival which is regarded
as the Thai New Year, people gather together at temples to make merit
and networking. There may be activities for children to play together, such
as Ngu Kin Hang (Snatching a baby from the mother snake), Ri Ri Khaosan
(Catching the last one in the line), Mae Sri, or competitions such as Chak
Cha (Tug of war, the losing team must dance), Chuang Ram (Riding back
catching ball, the losing team must dance), and Saba Ram (Tossing ball
to the target, the losing team must dance). Otherwise play with verse
singing such as Yon Chingcha (Swing play) or Cha Nang Hong, and Ram
Tone. Thai folk play is considered an intangible cultural heritage by its
high artistic value in terms of movements, methods, patterns, tactics, and
sophisticated language uses. It also helps to enhance the health, emotion,
intelligence, compassion and harmony at the same time. Different folk play
reflects distinctive living wisdom of Thai people in the past which is based
on the local characteristics and tradition
• Mon Son Pa (Hiding a cloth behind one’ s back)
202 | Culture Ways of Life and Wisdom