On 5 November 2025, Khon Kaen University (KKU), in collaboration with governmental and private sector agencies, held the opening ceremony for the “Sithan International Festival 2025: Boon Somma Bucha Nak.” This year’s event was held under the theme “Sithan Navadhara Himalayan – River, Blood, and Lineage.”
The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the University Council, joined by Mr. Charin Thongsuk, Governor of Khon Kaen Province, and Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University. Also in attendance were university executives, representatives from five partner countries (Thailand, China, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam), faculty members, students, and a large crowd of members of the public, many of whom were elegantly dressed in traditional Thai fabrics. The event took place at the Naga Plaza, Sithan Lake, Khon Kaen University.
The official programme commenced at 16:30 hrs with a magnificent procession of krathongs and grand krathong floats, representing the 16 participating faculties, moving spectacularly along Sithan Road, drawing immense interest from the spectators.
At 19:00 hrs, the grand Loy Krathong ceremony was officially opened, followed by a Royal Khon performance titled “Thotsa Rama Sirawat Phra Phan Pi” (The Ten Rama paying Homage to the Queen Mother).
Based on a Royal Initiative, this Khon performance depicted the reconciliation and resolution of conflict between the armies of Rama and Thotsakan (Ravana). It was staged as an act of merit-making dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. The performance featured recitations narrating Her Majesty’s invaluable contributions to the people of Thailand and the world, reflecting the deep gratitude and unwavering devotion of the public.
Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the University Council, stated that the Sithan Festival has been a crucial annual activity for the university since 2015, marking nearly its ten-year anniversary. This year, the festival was elevated to an international level under a concept that links the waterways and faith from the Himalayas to Sithan.
“Organising this event integrates art and culture with the traditional Loy Krathong festival, encompassing both the dimension of traditional cultural value and the awareness of responsibility towards natural resources and the environment. This event is vital for connecting countries in the same river basin, fostering mutual support for shared, sustainable prosperity,” said Dr. Narongchai.
Mr. Charin Thongsuk, Governor of Khon Kaen Province, mentioned that Khon Kaen is transitioning towards becoming the Creative Economy centre of the Northeast, with tourism and services contributing approximately half of the provincial revenue.
“The Sithan Festival reflects the preservation and continuation of local Isan arts and culture, coupled with the creation of cultural economy and tourism. Therefore, the province is committed to fully supporting the organisation of the festival in terms of convenience, safety, and publicity, with the goal of elevating it to an international standard tradition. This aligns with our vision: ‘City of Innovation, Educational Metropolis, and Isan Cultural Centre.’ This event holds immense value, both culturally and economically, for the province,” stated the Governor.
Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, remarked that the university recognises the importance of conserving, continuing, and developing the arts and culture that form the roots of the Isan community. Consequently, KKU initiated the annual Sithan Festival at Sithan Lake.
“The concept for this year’s international event is ‘The Journey of Water and Faith’ from the source to the estuary. The water from the sacred ice melting on the Himalayan peaks—the Tibetan Plateau—flows into the Mekong River, which serves as the lifeblood nourishing Isan culture. It passes through several countries before nurturing the Thai Isan region, giving rise to the culture of the river basin,” stated the President.
“This year, we are proud to have the collaboration of five nations: the Kingdom of Thailand, the People’s Republic of China, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. This collaboration ensures that the Sithan Festival 2025 is more than just a tradition; it is a true platform for international cultural exchange and the forging of friendships among the people of the region,” he added.
Ms. Anna Sueangam-iam, MISS UNIVERSE THAILAND 2022, expressed that the Sithan Festival is one of the grandest events in Khon Kaen. “I am delighted to be a representative in the procession. Beyond the grandeur of the event, what I love most are the people. They are as lovely and welcoming as ever. I hope that, should I have the opportunity next year, I would like to participate as one of the Nang Noppamas (beauty queens) of Sithan Lake again.”
Ms. Chotnapa Kaeochuen, Miss Thailand 2025, shared her deep impression upon visiting Sithan Lake for the first time. “I had previously seen it via social media, but to experience it in person is truly impressive. The people of Khon Kaen are lovely and gave us a wonderful welcome. The event is organised on a magnificent scale. I would like to invite everyone to experience Thailand’s grand Loy Krathong tradition, hosted right here at Khon Kaen University. If you missed it this year, book your tickets for next year!”
Mrs. Atchariya Suwor, mother of eight-year-old Sunitchapat Suwor from Mahathai Suksa Northeastern School, whose son performed Khon at the event, said, “I am incredibly proud that my son performed Khon to commemorate the immense Royal Grace of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. Afterwards, we will go float a krathong. I want to instil in him a love for and a desire to preserve our Thai culture. I am so glad that Khon Kaen University organises such a meaningful event, providing opportunities for children to participate in cultural inheritance. It shows that the university’s role extends beyond education; it is also a centre for the conservation of Isan culture.”
The Sithan International Festival 2025: Boon Somma Bucha Nak was held for three days and three nights, from 3 to 5 November 2025, at Sithan Lake, Khon Kaen University. This year’s event marks a significant step for Khon Kaen University, officially elevating the festival to an international standard. It reflects the university’s commitment to being the regional centre for arts and culture, aligning with KKU’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029, which focuses on internationalisation and contributing to society. Furthermore, the festival provided a venue for the public to preserve cultural heritage and to reflect upon the boundless Royal Grace of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who remains the inspiration for the beauty of Thai arts and culture.
[Click here to view photographs of the atmosphere at Sithan KKU Festival 2025 on Day 3]
