Where firecrackers do a lively trade

Faith and beliefs are tied to cultures which vary from region to region with different histories that explain their origins. One example can be witnessed at Wat Chedi Ai Kai in Sichon district of Nakhon Si Thammarat where word has spread about temple visitors being granted their wishes after a prayer. Inside a pavilion in the temple stands a wooden statue of a boy, known as Ai Kai, aged between nine and 10, which is believed to be where his spirit resides. The temple, revered by residents and visitors from neighbouring southern provinces, is thought to deliver luck and prosperity to those who pray for it.

The temple’s main entrance is adorned by plaster rooster statues of all sizes. Close by is an area where visitors light up firecrackers and debris from the fireworks has gathered there in piles. People who had their wishes granted follow the customary practice of setting off firecrackers and donating rooster statues to honour the spirit of Ai Kai. The frequent deafening noise of firecrackers speaks volumes of the faith people have in the statue’s spirit and its power to make wishes come true.

Every day, people pack the temple, with three lit incense sticks in hand, to pay their respects. For every wish granted, one incense stick is lit in return for the favour received and visitors also present to Ai Kai khanom pia Chinese pastry cakes, a military or police uniform, a rooster statue and rubber bands.

Locals pass down a tale that the site of the temple was once a spot where Luang Phu Thuad, a respected senior monk of the South, stopped during his pilgrimage and performed a meditation walk.

Tagging along was the spirit of Ai Kai, his young disciple. Buried at the rest stop were priceless treasures and religious objects which were left untouched. Ai Kai’s spirit has since been put in charge of guarding the treasures and the temple property.