PHUKET, THAILAND – Thousands gathered in Thalang in mid-March to celebrate the annual Heroines Festival, commemorating the historic resistance of two women against invading forces.
Three days of remembrance at Thalang Memorial
The festival took place at the Thalang Memorial, also known as Thalang Victory Field, in Thalang district. For three consecutive evenings, crowds assembled around the monument for an expansive historical stage production.
Festivities ran from 13 to 15 March and concluded late on the night of 15 March. Organisers reported especially full stands around the memorial site for the final performance.
Two sisters as symbols of the island
At the centre of the commemorations were Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Sri Soonthorn, still widely known on Phuket as Ya Chan and Ya Muk. According to local history, the sisters in 1785 united the population of Thalang and mobilised them to defend against attacking forces.
This act of resistance was portrayed as a key factor in ensuring the survival of the settlement at that time. The festival positioned the two women as enduring symbols of courage and unity for the island.
Military leadership and provincial officials at opening
The opening ceremony on 13 March was led by Boonsin Padklang, adviser to the commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Army and former commander of the 2nd Army Area. He presided over the formal launch of the event at the memorial grounds.
Among the guests were Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, governor of Phuket, Kusumal Pongsitthithavorn, president of the Phuket Red Cross, and Rewat Areerob, president of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization. They were joined by representatives from government agencies, the private sector and numerous visitors.
Showpiece production with grand staging and large cast
The programme’s focal point was the stage production “Thao Thep Krasattri – Thao Sri Soonthorn: A Tribute to the Heroes of Thalang”. It featured large sets, powerful light and sound effects, and an ensemble of hundreds of performers.
Under the motto “Love of Nation, Protection of the Land: Heroines of Thalang”, the play retold the defence of Thalang. It highlighted the bravery, willingness to sacrifice and solidarity of the island’s residents.
Appeal to the younger generation
In his address, Gen Boonsin urged people to attend the performances to maintain awareness of past sacrifices and to understand the path to the island’s current development. He linked the historical episode to broader themes of national defence and civic responsibility.
The general also referred to his own deployments during his military career, including in the context of tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. He stressed how important historical education was for young people to appreciate the country’s past.
Culture market and 300 stalls boost local income
Alongside the nightly historical show, a culture fair offered traditional performances, handicrafts and regional cuisine. The activities filled the area around the memorial both during the day and in the evenings.
Organisers reported more than 300 food stalls and vendors operating throughout the three days. They said the strong visitor turnout positioned the festival as a driver of local revenue as well as a cultural event.
Tourism strategy rooted in historical awareness
The Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization (PPAO) stated that the annual festival was crucial for passing on the story of the two heroines and the defence of Thalang to future generations. The agency framed the event as part of a broader effort to preserve local heritage.
At the same time, organisers explicitly presented the festival as a tool for tourism promotion. They aimed to make Phuket more visible as a destination for cultural travel for visitors from across Thailand and from abroad.