The Performance of Mahājanaka Creativity of Jatakas in Thai Society

Abstract

This research aims to study the contemporary performance ‘Mahājanaka’ produced by Srinakharinwirote University in the occasion of the 24th HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Day. The study finds that the performance is narrated sequentially according to HM King Bhumibol’s book ‘Mahājanaka’. The performance is divided into 3 acts; the first act- Mithilā Nagara, the second act – Perseverance, and the third act – Faith of Wisdom. Many performing techniques are used to narrate the story, for example, traditional Sepha recitation, puppets, shadow play, symphony orchestra music, and animation. ‘Mahājanaka’ reflects the creativity of a contemporary performance to convey the content of a jātaka, which is rooted from the Tipiāaka. It still represents a significance role of the bodhisatta who ‘determinedly fulfils the perfection’ in the changing Thai Society.