Saiyasat
This man is a Saiyasat / Saiyasart (ไสยศาสตร์), a Thai shaman practicing the traditional system of magic, occultism, sorcery, and esoteric animist practices. The practice encompasses a blend of ancient Khmer mysticism, indigenous animism, and Tantric/Brahmanic influences that coexist alongside everyday Thai Buddhism. The phallic totems or amulets worn by the Saiyasat are called Palad Khik (ปลัดขิก) which are rooted in ancient Hindu animism of the Shiva Lingam. Unlike sacred Buddha images, which are worn around the neck, a Palad Khik is traditionally worn tied on a cord around the waist (under clothing) or tucked into a pocket or purse. #streetphotography #streetportrait #saiyasat #shaman #lingam #bangkok #Thailand #animism #travelphotography