Wat Nang Kui temple’s artefacts spark intrigue amidst Phromlikhit drama comparisons

Wat Nang Kui, a historical temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period, is believed to have been established by a wealthy woman named Nang Kui. The temple, located in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, south of the city island and adjacent to the Chao Phraya River, was founded in 1587 during the reign of King Maha Thammaratchathirat. It experienced significant growth and prosperity until the fall of Ayutthaya.

After years of neglect following the fall, the temple was revived during the reign of King Rama III of the Rattanakosin era. This period saw the restoration of various temples in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, including Wat Nang Kui.

The main chapel, surrounded by Narayana and Sema stone images, the pagoda, and the Prang, were all restored. The Fine Arts Department registered it as a historical site on March 18, 1941.

Wat Nang Kui is home to significant Buddhist artefacts including a Dvaravati period Buddha image named Luang Por Sila Lang Naga Prok, and Luang Por Yim, a victorious Buddha image carved from golden teak and covered in gold.

According to local narratives, Luang Por Yim floated along the Chao Phraya River until it arrived at the temple, where it has been enshrined ever since. The temple also houses the shrine of Mae Takhian Thong, a shrine built on the remains of a 400 year old Hopea tree that died around 1997.

The shrine was carved into the image of Mae Takhian Thong and placed on the original tree stump for devotees to pay their respects.

Online, there are discussions about the similarity between the temple’s name, Wat Nang Kui, and the character Yai Kui from the drama Phromlikhit.

This has led to questions about whether Yai Kui has any historical connections. However, Yai Kui from the drama is set during the reign of King Ekathotsarot which began in 1708. In contrast, Wat Nang Kui was founded in 1587, suggesting that the temple predates Yai Kui by several decades reported Sanook.

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