Every year on October 16th, The Thai Boxing Association of the U.S.A. celebrates Teacher’s Day, a time to show honor and respects to our teachers in Muay Thai as teachers are highly regarded and respected in the Muay Thai boxing culture. Traditionally, students present a special gift to their teacher which is made of the following symbolic items :
- A candle
- A 1/2 cup of uncooked rice
- 3 sticks of unlit incense
- A piece of fruit
- Dried flowers
All these items are placed in a bowl, offered to the teacher as the student is in a respectful kneeling (wai) position and then bows three times to pay respects to the teacher to complete the ceremonial presentation.
This special day is also the birthday of founder of the TBA and the great man responsible for bringing Muay Thai to America. Thus, today is a most special day for us here as we think of and are very grateful for Grandmaster Chai, all the Ajarns (Masters), and all our teachers who have guided, supported, and encouraged us in our martial arts journey. Happy birthday, Grandmaster Chai. Here’s to many more years of memories in Muay Thai. Wai!
