Wai Kru 2025, 5th June 2025

Wai Kru (ไหว้ครู) is a traditional Thai ceremony held to pay respect to teachers. The name translates to “paying respect to the teacher” — "wai" (ไหว้) means a respectful gesture or greeting, and "kru" (ครู) means teacher.

Key Elements of Wai Kru:

• Purpose:
  Wai Kru honors teachers for their guidance and knowledge. It also symbolizes the students’ gratitude and commitment to learning.
• When It Happens:
  Usually held early in the academic year in schools across Thailand, often on a Thursday, as it is traditionally associated with learning and wisdom.
• Ceremony Highlights:
  • Students perform the wai gesture (a prayer-like posture with bowed head and hands together).
  • They offer symbolic items such as:
    • Dok khem (needle flower) – representing sharp wit.
    • Ya Praek (Bermuda grass) – symbolizing perseverance.
    • Ivy or eggplant flower – representing respect and humility.
  • A chant or prayer is recited, known as the Wai Kru chant, asking for blessings and wisdom.
  • Sometimes, awards or recognition are given during the event.

Wai Kru in Martial Arts (Muay Thai):

Wai Kru also has a significant role in Muay Thai, where fighters perform the Wai Kru Ram Muay — a ritual dance done before matches to show respect to teachers, family, and spirits. It's deeply spiritual and personalized, often reflecting the fighter’s training camp or region.