globalwanderer
March 1st, 2008, 09:31
Whilst in Udon Thani we went to an Isaan concert. About 16 of us headed off in the pick up to a temple about 30 minutes away from the house. The first thing we notice when entering is the stage, where the concert had already started, and the crowds of people. The next thing is the тАШlying in stateтАЩ of a senior monk who had died recently. Up on a podium, in a glass sided coffin. Some people paying their respects. Monks chanting, competing with the concert.
Just before 12 work starts on the coffin which is replaced with a wooden one. An iron box is then assembled around the coffin. Suddenly the concert stops and all the lights are turned out. Everyone stands up and turns towards the coffin. One of the lads goes over and collects a pile of paper flowers. We go over and pay our respects. About 1210 a monk lights a long fuse, which in turn sets off fireworks lighting a sign and thunder flashes as the flame edges towards the coffin. The monks start chanting. We all stand, our hands in a wai. Finally the flame reaches the coffin and the cremation begins. Smoke comes from the chimney. Fireworks are set off, lighting the sky for miles around.
After about 15 minutes the monks stop chanting. Everyone returns to sit down and after a few minutes the lights are turned on and the concert restarts. We stand watching, drinking the occasional swig of Lao Whisky until about 4 when someone has the good idea that it may be time to go home.
Just before 12 work starts on the coffin which is replaced with a wooden one. An iron box is then assembled around the coffin. Suddenly the concert stops and all the lights are turned out. Everyone stands up and turns towards the coffin. One of the lads goes over and collects a pile of paper flowers. We go over and pay our respects. About 1210 a monk lights a long fuse, which in turn sets off fireworks lighting a sign and thunder flashes as the flame edges towards the coffin. The monks start chanting. We all stand, our hands in a wai. Finally the flame reaches the coffin and the cremation begins. Smoke comes from the chimney. Fireworks are set off, lighting the sky for miles around.
After about 15 minutes the monks stop chanting. Everyone returns to sit down and after a few minutes the lights are turned on and the concert restarts. We stand watching, drinking the occasional swig of Lao Whisky until about 4 when someone has the good idea that it may be time to go home.