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A Muay Thai Mongkol, representing the values of respect, spirituality, and tradition in the Muay Thai context, enjoys several popular variations. Each type serves its unique purpose, often distinguished by the materials and designs used.
Traditional Mongkol
The original Mongkol is made of braided animal skin, usually from a cow or buffalo. This type is primarily used during formal ceremonies and religious events in the Muay Thai gym. Wearing the Mongkol in these situations symbolizes the fighter’s commitment to respecting the sport's roots.
Competition Mongkol
Five virtues of Mongkol are prai, or spirit, relation to what the sporting challenge is, pati, kill, and forgiveness, which every fighter must possess for the match. Since muay thai mongkol competition is used during matches, this is the most well-known style of mongkol. It is often constructed from more modern materials such as cotton, synthetic fibers, or lightweight bamboo, since it must be durable to withstand the throws of hands and feet in combat.
The competition Mongkol is usually more embellished than the traditional ones, incorporating embroidered designs representing the fighter's gym or significant personal symbols. This adds an element of individualism while still obeying the hardcore rules.
Decorative Mongkol
The decorative Mongkol is not meant for use and is solely meant for the wall or display cases. Ornamental mongkols are made from very different materials, like wood and metals. They are meant to be still and often feature very intricate designsSymbol con symbolism, cultural elements, or religion. Many fighters have decorative Mongkol on their walls, symbols of their ceilings, or in trophies, and some even believe they have not won yet.
Practice Mongkol
Some gyms have Mongkols used during training sessions. Therefore, many practice Mongkols are made of cheaper materials and do not really represent a real mongkol. This is the kind of mongkol that is used since its main function is to facilitate the learning and teaching of muay Thai without making it expensive or easy considering the fight implements.
A Mongkol Muay Thai symbolizing the spirit of the sport and its roots is sacred and blessed. The design is guided by strong traditions, but variations exist concerning the materials and craftsmanship. Meaning and function incorporate cultural significance and practicality.
The construction of the Mongkol is not arbitrary. The design is thought out in every detail. Most Mongkol consists of a single braid and numerous twists; some may be enhanced with patterns or threads of cotton added on purpose. The tying represents discipline, control, and fatality in Muay Thai. A fighter must master these qualities to become successful in the sport.
The materials used to create a Mongkol bear great religious value. Genuine Mongols are made from the skin of holy animals like cows or buffaloes. This is why much of the Mongkol's value is associated with the practice of braiding is that it is sometimes made of the skin of the most virtuous animals. Some practitioners even think that wearing a Mongkol made of animal skin brings divine protection to the wearer, even if it's not overtly religious. Symbols of phallic representation are integrated in some Mongkol designs, such as the sacred thread, God Buddha, or geometrical patterns. Such embellishments strive to boost the Kong Salak's energy or power. Exquisite Mongkols can be trimmed with silk or gold thread, gemstones, or other precious materials to indicate a high social class.
Regarding the decorations, many Mongkols are blessed by a monk, and this act of blessing has a supernatural capacity to protect the fighter and bring victory. No matter how small or simple the mongkol is, if it is blessed, its energy is transferred to the fighter whenever the Mongkol is worn.
Since competition mongkols are used during fights, they have to be made of light and durable materials. Although many of these are treated to resist damage from the multiple fights, they are not as heavily decorated as the ceremonial ones, given that their main function is to serve.
Mongkol has numerous applications, from ceremonial and competitive to decorative. It extends beyond mere utility to embody respect and spirituality in Muay Thai.
Ceremonial Use
The mongkol is always used in every Muay Thai ceremony. The mongkol is worn by the fighters at the beginning of the Wai Khru ritual or the traditional paying respect to teachers. This is, however, a ritual practice but rather a cultural element that fighters consider mandatory. It is said to be a divine way of showing submission and honor; thus, no fighter would like to miss this opportunity. While every Muay Thai fight gym has its way of doing things, the wai kru is generally a muay Thai fight without ceremony, so missing or ignoring it is not considered proper, and the mongkol is essential for that.
During Training
A practice mongkol is worn by some fighters during their training sessions. Since they do not have a practice mongkol decorated with many charms or enhancements, they can conserve the wear-off on their authentic mongkol. Some fighters are also of the opinion that wearing a practice mongkol during training sessions prepares them for the fight, as every aspect of their training is as close to reality as possible. In this case, the remains of the Khan are also a part of the training.
Competitions
The competition Mongkol is mandated during official fights in Muay Thai. The fighters have to wear the mongkol and demonstrate skill and toughness. What the competition mongkol is made from are generally tougher materials than the traditional ones, so they can endure competently. Fighters believe that being blessed makes victory possible and that the divineness of the fight keeps the Mongkol safe from harm.
Display and Decoration
The decorative mongkol has no functional value because, after making it, the artisans will not let it be used in fights or training. Still, some fighters have a decorative Mongkol to showcase their gym or home to symbolize what they have been striving for. Decorative Mongkols are made with great care and skill, and every detail is paid attention to. Many practitioners perceive these as talismans, amulets, or trophies honoring the old history or prowess in the discipline.
The specifications relate to the materials and construction of the Mongkol, while maintenance is necessary for the longevity and preservation of its sacredness. Mongkol is treated with care, considering how delicate and valuable it is.
The Mongkol should not be worn or used for training, fighting, or sparring with the practice Mongkol decorated with talismans. Most of the time, a practice mongkol is made using less expensive materials that are tougher and thicker, so they can withstand the wear and tear of training sessions. Although fighters are still wearing other protective wear, practice mongkols allow room for great freedom of movement. However, sweat and other aspects of training that are sometimes very rough can damage it very much, so it is advisable to wash it as much as possible.
Competition Mongkol is the kind of Mongkol that meets the requirements of official competitions and fights. They are made of durable but light material. Taking care of a competitive mongkol is very important because any wear and tear on the mongkol will impact the performance of the fighter. This kind of Mongkol is preferably washed frequently since washing increases the durability of the Mongkol and also removes any odor that is associated with it.
Traditionally made mongkols are treated as magical and thus forbidden to use. Such mongkols have been blessed by monks and are rarely cleaned. Cleaning should be very minimal, and if cleaning is a must, it is advised to use only a damp cloth and air dry it in the shade.
Mongkols, especially made from animal skin and leather, require special treatment. Once again, specific oils and creams should be applied to prevent the fabric from drying and cracking. As much as possible, the Mongkol should not be placed in the direct sunlight for long, nor it should be encouraged to keep moisture as this will lead to decay.
Again, Mongkols made from cloth or significantly decorated materials are more or less easy to clean and maintain. Cotton or synthetic-fiber mongkols can be washed with a diluted cleansing solution as often as necessary, especially during fights and training.
A1: Mongkol is a headgear made by braiding a sacred object without using a knot to represent the spiritual believes of Muay Thai. Mongkol is made from cow and buffalo leather, stone, or wood, depending on the individual preferences of the athletes. Mongkols are worn by fighters when they enter the ring. No fighter will ever enter the ring without wearing the Mongkol.
A2: No, it is not compulsory for Muay Thai practitioners to wear mongkol. Mongkol is not worthless, as it acts as a teacher's blessing and protective amulet for Muay Thai fighters and exceptional grapplers. Out of respect, several Mongol martial artists wear Mongol even if they practice out of the ring. There was a fighter who had no head and broke the mongkol. Out of respect, he never worn it.
A3: Mongkol care depends on the material. For leathers mongkols, use leather cleaners, and for tehir protectants. Practice mongkols can be washed like normal cloth. Other kinds of mongkos need to be wiped with a wet cloth only.
A4: Mongkol symbolizes the spirit of Muay Thai and respect in a sacred way. It protects the wearer during fights and is a reminder of the roots and traditions of this martial art.
A5: Yes, mongkol was considered a blessed and divine protective object to restore peace and harmony for the fighters.
A6: Absolutely, anyone who respect Muay Thai and its culture can wear Mongkol for good luck, protection and connection with martial art.
