On 30 May 2024, the Royal Thai Embassy in Canberra organized a special lecture titled “Chud Thai” – Thai National Costume: The Story of a Cultural Heritage” at the Sala Thai Function Hall, to showcase the evolution of Thai textiles and Thai costume. Delivered by distinguished speaker, Asst. Prof. Dr. Anucha Thirakanont, Dean of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Thammasat University, Thailand, an expert in Thai fabrics, the lecture aimed to provide knowledge and raise awareness about Thai costume and fabrics. The event was attended by 70 participants, including members of Women Heads of Missions in Australia (WoHOMA) and Women International Club (WIC) in Canberra.
In her opening remarks, H.E. Ms. Arjaree Sriratanaban, Ambassador of Thailand, paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, for her visionary efforts in reviving Thai costume and modernizing Thai fashion, as well as her pioneering work in empowering Thai women, including weavers, by providing them with training and livelihood opportunities, notably by establishing the SUPPORT Foundation. The Ambassador noted the continued inspiration and flourishing of Chud Thai under the guidance of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana and Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. In addition, she emphasised the importance of Chud Thai as a heritage to be safeguarded for future generations as the Thai government is working towards proposing “Chud Thai: The Knowledge, Craftmanship and Practices of the Thai National Costume” to be inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Anucha’s lecture explored the history of Chud Thai, examining its evolution through different periods of the Thai history, notably from the Dvaravati period (6th-11th century) through the Ayutthaya period (14th- 18th century) to Rattanakosin period (late 18th century to present), which also saw influence from other civilisations, including Western culture. He also presented the concept and origin of the eight Royal Thai costumes, designed under the royal initiative of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. These dresses were brought to the international stage as the Queen Mother wore them not only at royal ceremonies in Thailand but also while accompanying His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great during their State visits to various countries, including Australia.
The event also featured a fashion show of Chud Thai and Royal Thai costumes by the Thai Ambassador, women heads of Team Thailand agencies, and spouses of Thai diplomats. This was followed by a workshop on brooch pins made from Thai silk.
Credit to Royal Thai Embassy Canberra