A Sacred Dance of Warriors: The 17th World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony Celebrates Tradition in Ayutthaya

Against the breathtaking backdrop of Ayutthaya's ancient ruins, a powerful display of cultural heritage unfolded as the 17th World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony took center stage. Over 800 Muay Thai practitioners from across the globe converged on this historic city, transforming it into a vibrant celebration of Thailand's national martial art.

The ceremony, held over two days at the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, was a spectacle of synchronized Wai Kru dances, a time-honoured tradition where fighters pay homage to their masters. Wearing auspicious headbands, participants moved with grace and power, honoring the deep-rooted legacy of Muay Thai.

This internationally recognized event drew thousands of enthusiasts from numerous countries and regions. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong emphasized the ceremony’s role in promoting Thailand's cultural soft power and boosting sports tourism.

A Cultural and Martial Arts Extravaganza

Hosted at Wat Mahathat and Wat Langkha Khao, the event showcased the diverse facets of Muay Thai. Visitors experienced live demonstrations of four traditional Muay Thai Boran styles:

• Muay Chaiya (Southern Thailand): Focused on defensive counterattacks.
• Muay Korat (Northeast): Known for its powerful strikes.
• Muay Tha Sao (North): Emphasizing speed and agility.
• Muay Lop Buri (Central): Recognized for its deceptive movements.

Beyond the martial arts displays, the event offered a rich tapestry of Thai culture. Attendees explored traditional handicrafts like Sak Yant (sacred tattooing) and sword forging, participated in interactive training sessions, and savored local cuisine at the Retro Thai Market. Cultural and contemporary performances added to the festive atmosphere.

The Grand Wai Kru Ceremony: A Powerful Tribute

The highlight of the ceremony was the Grand Wai Kru Ceremony at Wat Mahathat, where thousands of practitioners united to perform the Wai Kru ritual. Leading the ceremony were renowned fighters like Prajanchai P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym, Ferrari Fairtex, Yodkaikaew “Y2K” Fairtex, and Saemapetch Fairtex.

The event not only reinforced Muay Thai's significance but also served as a driver for experience-based tourism. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the ceremony is expected to generate 158 million Baht in economic impact, attracting thousands of attendees.

Honouring the Legacy of Nai Khanom Tom

The ceremony also paid homage to the legendary Nai Khanom Tom, a Siamese warrior whose heroic feats against Burmese fighters in 1774 solidified Muay Thai's place in history. His victory, marked by the performance of the Wai Kru dance, is celebrated every March 17th as Boxer’s Day or National Muay Boran Day.

A Must-Attend Event

The 17th World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony was a testament to the enduring power of Muay Thai and its ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds. Against the backdrop of Ayutthaya’s historical grandeur, the ceremony showcased the rich cultural heritage of Thailand, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

For those eager to experience this unique cultural event, the Tourism Authority of Thailand invites you to the 18th Wai Kru ceremony in 2026. Keep an eye on the TAT website for official dates.

Photos from สรวงศ์ เทียนทอง (Sorawong Thienthong) and Thailand Festival Facebook