The good folks at Asian Journeys recently used an image of mine to grace the cover of their magazine. Hats off to the publisher, editor, adventurer and explorer of the Singapore-based mag, Mr. Floyd Cowan for choosing the picture of a young Thai Yai boy at the Poi Sang Long ordindantion ceremony. Apologies from me for the rather dodgy scan of the cover. However, you can see more images from the annual event on an earlier post here.

In late March or early April, Poi Sang Long takes place in towns and villages all over Mae Hong Son province. The Buddhist ordination ceremony is part of the Shan or Tai Yai tradition and was brought to Thailand by settlers from neighbouring Myanmar.  During the event known as the Festival of Precious Gems, young boys are ordained as novices and spend time studying Buddhist doctrine. A colourful spectacle to witness, it is one of the most delightful festivals in the country. On the first day of the four day ceremony, the boys have their hair shaved off at the temple and are then bathed and anointed with consecrated waters. The following day they are dressed in brightly coloured clothes and paraded through the town as sang long— precious gems.

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