Sandonta Anchestor Worship Tradition of Changwat Surin: Its Roles on Surin People

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to explore the current role of Saendonta Ancestor Worship Tradition for the local people in Surin province. This study was based on the assumption that the existence of Saendonta Ancestor Worship Tradition can be correlated to the social responsibilities of the people. Data was collected from two sources – documents and field research in the Saendonta Ancestor Worship Tradition in Surin province during 2012-2016 to observe and participate in the ceremony. Concerning the roles of Saendonta Ancestor Worship Tradition of Surin at the present time, the study has observed four dimensions: serving as a means to amalgamate different ethnic groups in Surin; as a source of entertainment for rite participants; as a destination of cultural tourism in the tenth lunar month; and as a cultural education platform that is also a socialization process.