The Southern Identity Reflected in the Commemorative Books of the Festival of the Tenth Lunar Month during 1965–1999

Abstract

This study aims to study the activities and commemorative books of the Festival of the Tenth Lunar Month which is held at Wat Pichaiyat, Bangkok, by the Southern Regional Association from 1965 to 1999. The research shows two significant transformations: First, there was a migration of people from Southern Thailand to Bangkok during the 1960s, leading to the formation of groups to build networks and provide mutual help among Southerners through organizing the Festival of the Tenth Lunar Month in Bangkok. When the festival was held and commemorative books were published, the writings in these books showed efforts to promote Southern identity, connected to national culture within the context of the Cold War era. Second, the study highlights efforts to present Southern identity to the people of Bangkok. These efforts were carried out through historical narratives, literature, and performances that shows Southern culture in the urban area of Bangkok.