Guidelines for Preserving Karen Tradition of Paddy Threshing for Sustainable Community Development: A Case Study of Ban Nong Bang and Ban Thung Suea Thon communities at Thong Pha Phum District in Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the tradition of paddy threshing of the Karen ethnic group and to determine guidelines for conserving the tradition of paddy threshing of the Karen ethnic groups at Thong Pha Phum District in Kanchanaburi Province, Use qualitative research methods applied anthropological research method. The fourteen primary informants consisted of 1) community leaders; 2) ritual performers; 3) community wisemen; and 4) a group of farmers. The six secondary informants consisted of youth, middlemen, and government officials. The instruments were: 1) an interview form; 2) an observation form; and 3) focus group topics. A content analysis was conducted. The study findings revealed that the Karen ethnic groups in Thong Pha Phum District have long inherited the paddy threshing tradition. The ritual of paddy threshing shows respect for nature, asks for forgiveness, and expresses gratitude to Mae Phosop for taking care of and making the rice crop abundant. Presently, the tradition has gradually faded away from the Karen communities due to various changes. Thus, the guidelines for preserving the paddy threshing tradition include: 1) educational organizations should incorporate the tradition of paddy threshing in the curricula to educate youth about its importance; 2) knowledge of the paddy threshing should be disseminated among youth to illustrate its connection to their way of life; 3) cultural organizations should include a paddy threshing tradition fair in their event planning; and 4) people of all ages collaborate to promote and preserve the paddy threshing culture. These preservation guidelines aim to foster an ethnic identity and cultivate a love for the homeland, serving as a foundation for sustainable community and social development.