Description
The Hor Thala City Pillar Shrine (ศาลหลักเมืองหอถลา) in the Phanna Nikhom district of Sakon Nakhon plays an important role in the belief system of the local Phu Thai people, one of a number of tribal peoples who migrated from Laos to Northeast Thailand. While the Phu Thai follow Theravada Buddhism (like most Thais do), they also worship their ancestors, the most revered figure being that of Chao Pu Thala.
Chao Pu Thala (เจ้าปู่ถลา) was a fearless warrior who protected the Phu Thai tribe centuries ago. They believe that his spirit still protects them from danger, as well as bestows blessings upon them. Ceremonies will be held at the Hor Thala City Pillar Shrine to pay respects in this ancient elder, including the performance of traditional Phu Thai dance and offerings of special food such a raw, bloody larb neua.
This Phu Thai shrine is located just a minute or two down the road from the Wat Pa Udom Somphon temple, which houses the relics of Luang Pu Fan Acharo. As the shrine is primarily used for special ceremonies (rather than on a weekly basis), it can sometimes seem not well-attended to. However, the shrine is always made tidy eventually, as needed.
The vicious looking dog who hangs out at the shrine is not actually vicious. He suffered an accident to his head which caused the unfortunate appearance of a permanent grimace (with bared teeth). So, don't worry about him if you make a visit to this sacred Sakon Nakhon shrine, which is only a few hundred meters from the Luang Chamnong Ratchakit Monastery and Wat Uthachan.
