Saturday, November 10, 2007
SUPERSTITION - WOMEN'S AURA IN MUAY THAI
Initially, women were banned from entering the fighting ring because Thai people believed that a female presence will destroy a Muay Thai fighter's skill, making him vulnerable to dangers and injuries. The belief is that female boxers, who are called Nak Muay Ying, will jinx any Muay Thai ring they fight. So sexist right??? Women in the past really have no stand in the society.
BUT..... of course now the society perceptions have changed. There has been an increase in the number of women joining Muay Thai as a sport. If not, I bet the women rights organization will be fighting for women to be allowed to join the sports till now.... The irony is that in Thailand, women who has shown their support for the Women's Liberation Movement were the ones who displayed objection against female practice of Muay Thai and calling them a disgraceful lot!
Thai people believe that unseen spirits inhabit everywhere, so it is necessary to perform special rites before they enter a boxing ring. They will ask for the spirits permission, propitiating them and destroy any evil that may be lurking around. The ritual is to protect the fighter and allow him to gain victory. Interestingly, before the fighter enter the ring, he will determine which nostril allow him to breathe more freely. If it is the right nostril, he will take the first step with his right foot, at the same time avoiding the bottom stairs. The aim is to have good luck.
credit: http://www.horizonmuaythai.com/
Before entering the ring, fighters will bow to show reverence. When they enter the ring, they will rub the ropes to "seal the ring" so as to prevent any evil spirits from entering. Before the fight begin, the fighters will kneel and bow three times and perform a ritualistic dance that is unique to each fighting school. The dance is to show respect to their teacher and his school mates as well as to intimidate the opponent. When the fight begin, traditional music will be played to keep up the tempo of the fighters.
credit: http://www.afsacademy.com/
Esther *-** my stories -
3:19 PM
