Medal - Pattani Province ND

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Celestial Bird Procession

Lettering: THE MYTHOLOGICAL BIRDS TRADITIONAL PROCESSION

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The Mythological Bird Procession is rooted in the historical grand parades observed during the pre-Islamic era of the northern coast of the Malay Peninsula. As noted from the old records from Chi Tu, the Chinese ambassador of the kingdom, would be paraded under a similar fashion upon their arrival to the city state. This largely originated from the custom that holds every state delegations should be celebrated akin to the return of the gods from their heavenly abode. The kingdom managed to obtained strong diplomatic relationship with ancient China derived from the epic celebrations for its delegations.

The birds were mobilised for official use, including during the enthronement of the prince, arrival of state delegations and during royal circumcision celebrations. While not in use, the bird would be nestled in a special chamber, with a courtier delegated with a task of conducting rituals to guard her spirit.

There are several variants of the bird in Pattani, including Gagak Suro (raven), Karawek (kalaviṅka), Merak Mas (golden peacock), Garuda and Burung Singa (lion bird). The procession was later recorded in great detail upon the arrival of the British colonial administrator in neighbkring Kelantan from 1909. The tradition is continued on the Thai side of the border.