Members of an ethnic Mon family in Bang Kradi perform a traditional dance, but their intent is not to catch the attention of neighbours and tourists visiting Bang Khunthian district in Bangkok. The show, which is called Ram Phi Mon, or Mon ghost dance, is specifically organised to please the ancestors of long-deceased relatives. Held once every 10 years, the tradition is believed to help descendants expel evil spirits from the deceased and bring them good luck.
Participants in the event must jointly perform music and dance most attractive to the ancestor ghosts. The audience clap their hands while dancers move their bodies to the melodies and rhythms performed by the musicians. Some dancers may appear to become possessed by the ghosts, but they are still able to continue their performance until the end of the show.
Organisers usually spend two days preparing for the event, including offering food to the ghosts at a makeshift shelter. A belief also holds that family members who pay respect to their ancestors in this way will get useful advice from them and see their careers proceed in a sustainable way.
However, if some descendants commit an act called phit phi, or offending ghosts, the ancestors will unleash their dissatisfaction in the form of diseases or accidents. Wrongdoers will then have to conduct a ritual to apologise to the ghosts, otherwise they will not be able to escape from the bad fortune.
When watching Ram Phi Mon , one will see an underlying message that shows a strong relationship between family members and a deep respect that descendants have for their ancestors.
