The Provincial Hero Worshiping: Invented Ritual and Cultural Identity

Abstract

Background and objective (s): The research for this article aimed to study the ritual creation and the construction of identity in “Provincial Hero Worship”, focusing on the impact on both the “creators” and the “participants” of the rituals. The study sought to explore the cultural meanings of the rituals from a folkloristic perspective.

Methodology: The study employed two types of data. First, historical documents concerning the histories and heroic deeds of 20 provincial heroes. Second, field data were collected from annual “Provincial Hero Worship” in 20 provinces between 2023 and 2025, including interviews with the “creators” and “participants” of the rituals. Data analysis was conducted using the concepts of invented tradition and identity construction.

Main result: The findings indicate that “Provincial Hero Worship” emerged after the construction of provincial hero monuments. The ceremonies can be characterized as invented rituals that convey meaning through symbolic objects, symbolic behaviors and symbolic spaces. These rituals reflect a key aspect of identity: the sanctified persona of the provincial heroes. The “creators” of the rituals aim to transmit local values to the “participants.” However, limitations in cooperation between governmental agencies and local communities have resulted in the gradual erosion of traditional local identities, which have become absorbed into state-organized ceremonial formats.

Relevance to Thai Studies: This study enhances the understanding of the cultural significance of rituals in Thai society, illustrating how state-centric historical narratives are integrated into ritual practices. The study also highlights the use of rituals as instruments for promoting tourism and supports the notion of registering cultural knowledge as intangible heritage. In terms of social practice, the study contributes to understanding rituals, traditions and festivals in accordance with the policies of the Ministry of Culture.

Conclusion: “Provincial Hero Worship” are an invented rituals that reflects the historical and local identity associated with the sanctified “city fathers” embodied in the spirits of provincial heroes. The rituals have the potential to support local economic development and tourism.