On September 13, 2024, the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris organized an exceptional event entitled Majestic Chud Thai : “On the road to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage”.
This celebration, held at the residence of the Thai Ambassador, highlighted the richness of Thai cultural heritage, in particular Thai silk and "Chud Thai", the Thai national costume, in the presence of Her Royal Highness the Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.
Queen Sirikit's Legacy and Princess Sirivannavari's Vision
Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Chud Thai. In the 1960s, she recognized the importance of national costumes as representatives of Thai identity. She collaborated with researchers and designers to create a series of traditional Thai ensembles adapted to modern life, known as "Chud Thai Prachathaniyom" or "Chud Thai."
Today, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya continues this legacy. It emphasizes sustainability, traditional craftsmanship, and the revival of time-honored natural dyeing techniques for hand-woven Thai textiles. It also encourages the creation of modern patterns and fashion designs for Thai textiles, thus promoting the preservation and promotion of Chud Thai and Thai silk locally and internationally.
Chud Thai: more than just a traditional garment
Chud Thai is a symbol of Thailand's cultural identity and social practices, embodying centuries of craftsmanship. It is distinguished by its intricate fabrics, patterns, and colors, preserved over generations and reflecting the country's diverse cultural heritage.
Thailand has initiated the process of nominating "Chud Thai: Knowledge, Skills and Practices of Thai National Costume" for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of theUNESCOThis move underlines the country's commitment to preserving this tradition and promoting cultural diversity and inclusion.
**Chud Thai** (or sometimes spelled "Chut Thai") is the general term for traditional Thai clothing. It is worn during formal ceremonies, festivals, or special events. Chud Thai is an important part of Thai cultural heritage, and there are several variations depending on the occasion, region, and social status.
There are several styles of Chut Thai for women, worn according to the circumstances:
– Chut Thai Chakkri: For an elegant style, it is composed of a long draped sarong and a top often decorated with embroidery.
– Chut Thai Boromphiman: This is a long-sleeved robe, usually worn during formal ceremonies or at the royal court.
– Chut Thai Siwalai: Similar to the Boromphiman, but with a scarf draped over one shoulder.
– Chut Thai Chitlada: Worn at semi-formal events, it is simpler and does not have as much embroidery or embellishment.
Chut Thai for men:
Men wear trousers called "Chong Kraben" with a formal shirt or jacket. The costume can vary depending on the occasion, with more or less ornate versions. Men's costumes sometimes feature intricate patterns or traditional silk weaves.
Chud Thai is often made of Thai silk, a fabric renowned for its quality and beauty. The designs can be simple or very elaborate, and the choice of colors and embroidery is often linked to the event or the person's social status.
The Chud Thai is worn during religious events, such as Buddhist ceremonies, weddings, and national holidays such as Loy Krathong. It is also often worn during royal ceremonies and diplomatic receptions. This traditional garment, while rooted in Thai history and culture, continues to symbolize national identity and is worn with pride on solemn occasions.
Tom Yum Kung: Another Culinary and Cultural Treasure in the Spotlight
This event also celebrated the upcoming inscription of "Tom Yum Kung," a renowned Thai national dish, on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity this December. Guests had the opportunity to taste this delicious and healthy Thai soup, specially prepared by a renowned Thai chef.
Indeed, Tom Yum Kung (or Tom Yam Goong) is one of the most iconic dishes in Thai cuisine. It is a spicy and tangy soup, usually prepared with shrimp, although other variations exist with different types of meat or seafood.
The key ingredients that characterize Tom Yum Kung:
– Shrimp: The word “Kung” (or “Goong”) means “shrimp” in Thai. They are the main ingredient in the traditional version.
– Galangal (Kha): A root related to ginger, but with a more peppery and lemony flavor.
– Lemongrass: Used to give a fresh and tangy taste to the soup.
– Kaffir Lime leaves: They provide an intense citrus note.
– Chili Paste (Nam Prik Pao): This sweet and spicy paste is essential for the soup's distinctive flavor.
– Mushrooms: Mushrooms are often added for added texture and flavor.
– Fresh chili: To add heat and spice to the dish.
– Coriander: Used to garnish the soup before serving.
– Coconut milk or cream: For some variations, such as Tom Yum Nam Khon, coconut milk is added to sweeten and enrich the texture of the soup.
Tom Yum Kung is one of the most well-known and beloved Thai dishes worldwide. Its unique spicy, sour, and fragrant flavor makes it a favorite among Thai food lovers. It is often served in Thai restaurants around the world, and there are many regional and international variations. The ingredients in this soup are not only tasty but also beneficial for health. Lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. The broth, rich in herbs and spices, is light and low in calories, making it a healthy dish. This is why it has become a staple of Thai cuisine, thanks to its complex balance of flavors and health benefits. Its global popularity is a testament to the universal appeal of Thai cuisine.
Thailand has always been committed to preserving and promoting its traditions. This event at the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris demonstrates Thailand's ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting its unique cultural traditions, gaining recognition on the global stage, and ensuring their transmission to future generations.
