สำนักงานวิเทศสัมพันธ์ สำนักงานอธิการบดี 2025/02/26 , ( 240 views)
Ubon Ratchathani University (UBU), in collaboration with its research and academic service network, represented Thailand at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2025 in India from February 7–23, 2025. This globally recognized event celebrates arts, culture, and craftsmanship from across the world, spanning over 45 acres and featuring more than 1,250 handicraft booths. The festival brought together over 2,500 artisans and artists from across India and 42 participating countries, making it a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and artistic excellence.
UBU’s participation included a range of activities and exhibitions, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Ubon Ratchathani:
1. Musical Performances – A series of traditional Thai musical performances were presented by students and lecturer from the Department of Music Education, Faculty of Education, under the artistic direction of Associate Professor Dr. Chutinun Prasitpuriprecha, President of Ubon Ratchathani University.
2. Candle Carving Demonstration – Master artisans from Sri Pradu Candle Learning Center, in collaboration with UBU researchers, demonstrated candle carving. This initiative is part of UBU’s cultural research project aimed at enhancing the value and appreciation of Ubon Ratchathani’s traditional candle-making craftsmanship.
3. Exhibition of Traditional Thai Offerings and Bai Sri Arrangements – Entrepreneurs from Khemmarat and Na Tan Districts displayed exquisite ceremonial offerings and Bai Sri arrangements as part of a research-driven initiative by UBU to strengthen the local creative economy and enhance the competitiveness of cultural heritage-based communities in these districts.
4. Showcase of Ubon Ratchathani’s Traditional Textiles – The renowned Khum Chan Hom Weaving Group presented contemporary handwoven textiles, including award-winning pieces such as the intricately woven silk technique known as “Fun Mai Jok Son Kaesorn Son Pom,” which received the prestigious World Crafts Council Award of Excellence for Handicrafts in the Asia-Pacific Region. This group also exhibited Thai textiles reimagined as Indian-inspired cultural attire, in collaboration with the India Studies Center at UBU.
UBU’s participation in this prestigious international crafts festival provided an invaluable opportunity to showcase the artistic heritage, cultural assets, and creative potential of Ubon Ratchathani on a global stage. By highlighting the province’s soft power through arts and culture, the university contributes to driving the creative economy, aligning with its mission to be a leading institution dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through education, research, and cultural preservation.
English version by: Kanjana Manomai
Original (Thai) version by: Plern Wichaiwong
Photos by: Plern Wichaiwong
