POI SANG LONG CEREMONY

The Poi Sang Long ceremony in Mae Hong Son is a Buddhist novice ordination ceremony, but it is unlike any other ceremony of its type in the country. Young boys aged between 7 and 14 are ordained as novices so they can spend time studying Buddhist doctrines. It is believed that by pursuing ordination for their parents, they gain merit. 

The origins of this festival lie in Buddhist legend. It is believed that the tradition follows in the footsteps of Prince Rahula, the Buddha's own son, who gave up his worldly life to follow his father's spiritual teachings. Prince Rahula became the youngest ordained monk and the first novice in Buddhism. Subsequently it became a tradition for young boys to be ordained so they can undertake the study of Buddhist teachings. With deep reverence for the Buddhist religion, the local residents in Mae Hong Son province are of the view that the celebrations should be as grand as possible.

The Poi Sang Long ceremony is unique to Mae Hong Son province. A colourful spectacle to witness, it is perhaps one of the most delightful festivals in Mae Hong Son, attracting people from far and wide. 

“Rup Sang Long Day”, the first day of the ceremony
The first day of the ceremony day begins with the boys having their hair shaved off by parents and relatives. They are then bathed and anointed with consecrated waters and dressed in brightly coloured costumes. By the end of this process, the boys are now known as Sang Long or Luuk Kaew — precious gems.

A colourful procession makes it way through the streets of Mae Hong Son Municipality. In the earlier part of the day, the procession makes stops at the city pillar and various temples en route so the 'Sang Long’ can seek forgiveness from the abbot. By late afternoon, the boys are carried back home. 

“Kham Kaek Day”, the second day
On the second day, relatives, friends and guests stop by the house of the Sang Long host family in order to congratulate the family and present alms.

“Hae Krua Lu Day”, the third day
On the third day, “Hae Krua Lu Day”, the grand colourful procession is held in the morning. Well-attended by family members and individuals of importance in Mae Hong Son’s Shan community, the procession of the Sang Long features handmade floats, offerings for the temple, traditional dances. The procession starts out from Chong Kham and Chong Klang Temple in the heart of the city before it moves along the main streets of town and out to the temples.

“Kham Sang Day”, the fourth day
The procession once again proceeds through the town and the Sang Long are escorted to Chong Kham and Chong Klang Temple for the formal ordination ceremony.

In addition to the Poi Sang Long ceremony at Chong Kham and Chong Klang Temple in Mae Hong Son Municipality, Poi Sang Long ceremonies can also be observed in the following locations.

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mae Hong Son Office
Tel: +66 (0) 5361 2982-3
Fax: +66 (0) 5361 2984
E-mail: tatmhs@tat.or.th

(copied from : http://www.tatnews.org/events/events/2011/april/5212.asp)