Funeral

I've been to several funerals since moving to the village at Kaset Mai.  They usually last three days, but can last longer.  Here's some photos from the one I attended about a week ago.

The first evening of a funeral is about prayer, remembrance, and…

…messing around with electronic devices.

Traditional Thai music is played, slow and somber.

Here’s what I’ve learned about taking pictures of Thais.  Boys are hams, and worse when they get older.  Girls are shy and that too gets worse as they get older.  Mom and son love to pose together, mom and daughter – forget it.  Men are ok with pictures but not with their kids, and usually not with their wife.  Politicians and village elders will almost insist that you take their picture at least once.

Exception to the rule.

The second evening is more of a celebration; not a party but not at all somber.  There is plenty of traditional food, and Thai music with a livelier beat.   I’m not sure how many attended this event, but I’d guess it to be around five hundred.

Preparing a dessert dish of sweet corn, tapioca, and coconut milk.  Aroi!

Will your casket be dressed up like this one?

Kanoam (sweets and /or snacks) available if you don't care for the traditional dishes.

The final ceremony is held during the day.  A meal is served, and then the casket is placed on a cart, which is pulled by monks, family members, and close friends.

Village leaders.

Saying good-bye to an old friend.

The procession begins, about a two mile walk.

Place of cremation

Wanted: someone brave enough to launch fireworks by hand.  When the procession approached the place of cremation this man and several others went into the bushes and set off fireworks.  I don't know if it was to announce the arrival of the deceased or to frighten away evil spirits.

Paying final respects to the deceased and his family.

The cremation fire is set off by fireworks, lots of them.  When the fire is lit, that's it, you go home.  It's not polite to hang around and watch.

Good-bye grandpa.