VALUE ENHANCEMENT OF THE TAK BAT DEVO TRADITION THROUGH ECONOMIC AND CREATIVE CULTURAL DIMENSIONS IN PHICHAI DISTRICT UTTARADIT PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) examine the identity and problems associated with organizing the Tak Bat Thevo tradition; 2) analyze and develop the Tak Bat Thevo tradition from the perspectives of creative economics and creative culture; and 3) propose guidelines for enhancing the economic and creative cultural value of the Tak Bat Thevo tradition. A qualitative research approach was employed, with a sample of 33 participants consisting of both monastics and laypeople. Research instruments included in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, all of which were validated for content validity by subject matter experts and assessed for item appropriateness. The collected data were analyzed using content analysis with contextual interpretation.

The findings were as follows:

1) The Tak Bat Thevo tradition in Phichai District, Uttaradit Province, represents a cultural heritage reflecting three core dimensions of community identity: (1) Buddhist religious values, (2) local cultural heritage, and (3) community relationships. Community members continue to preserve and transmit this tradition through various activities that foster unity and local pride. Nevertheless, the tradition faces challenges related to budget constraints, organizational management, public relations, and declining youth participation. It is therefore recommended that management systems be strengthened and the roles of younger generations be promoted to ensure the tradition's long-term sustainability.

2) Analysis and development of the Tak Bat Thevo tradition through the lens of creative economics and creative culture revealed that local cultural capital and indigenous wisdom can be leveraged to generate added value for the community. This can be achieved through the promotion of cultural tourism, the establishment of community markets, the utilization of digital media, and the development of creative activities that engage youth integrated with local wisdom and the cultivation of a network of local creative practitioners. These approaches contribute to income generation, stimulation of grassroots economies, and sustainable reinforcement of community identity and pride.

3) Guidelines for enhancing the economic and creative cultural value of the Tak Bat Thevo tradition include the development of community products, promotion of cultural tourism, use of digital media, design of contemporary participatory activities, and the establishment of cross-sector collaborative networks. These strategies serve to increase income, stimulate grassroots economic growth, and promote the conservation of local culture, while simultaneously fostering youth engagement ultimately advancing the tradition as a culturally valuable and sustainable asset for the future.