Phra That Phanom Kha Okasa: Cultural Identity Dynamicsin A Historical And Changing Context

My research aims to study the dynamics of cultural identity amongst the Pra That Phanom Kha Okasa, a group dedicated by rulers and kings to support and uphold Buddhism, in the context of historical and political changes in Laos. The Kha Okasa held the status of servants who were of the lowest social status in the Lao feudal system. When Laos was colonized by the Kingdom of Siam, the role of the Kha Okasa in the culture faded. Under the reign of King Rama V, the central government of Siam ordered to demote the local chief administration in the Lao districts until slavery was abolished. However, despite the changes during that period, the relationship between the Phra That Phanom and Buddhism remained for a long time. Through this relationship, they held on to the meaning of being a Kha Okasa which, for them, was to be a sacred symbol and center of the soul for people across the Mekong River who were dealing with cultural adaptation in the changing world.