Tuwaang : The Craftsman Warrior

Tuwaang

Introduction

Tuwaang is the epic hero of the Manobo people located on the central part of Mindanao, about eighty kilometers by road and trail northwest of Davao city. He is believed to be a one man campaign against evil and to protect his people.

He does farming for his people and he is treated as a leader or a Bagani, a warrior who has taken many human lives. He is also a craftsman as seen in the first epic song where it is mentioned that “he is experienced in making leglets, engraving finger rings, and moulding chains”. In other words, he is a blacksmith, which played an important role in their society.

Physical Traits

Krahang is described with distinct physical characteristics that set him apart from other mythical beings. He is typically depicted as a tall and thin figure with dark skin and a visage that can appear both handsome and ghostly. One of the defining physical traits of Krahang is his ability to emit light in the dark, often assumed to be a manifestation of his supernatural powers. In some accounts, Krahang is portrayed as having wings that allow him to travel at night, reinforcing his reputation as an aerial spirit. He is often illustrated wearing a traditional Thai garment called a “chong kraben” along with a distinctive headpiece.

Family

He is known to have married the Maiden of Mo:nawon in the story “Tuwaang attends a wedding”. In many tales, Krahang is said to be part of a larger family of spirits known as “Phi,” which encompasses a broad spectrum of supernatural beings in Thai mythology. His precise familial connections can vary between tales, with some suggesting he has siblings who also possess supernatural qualities.

Powers and Abilities

According to the legend, he has supernatural abilities that are bestowed upon him because of the clothes made from heavenly materials that he wears. He can teleport using lightning or use his anthropomorphic bird. He also had the use of the magic betel nut, the magic skin of gold, and the special clothes beaded by the goddesses. He is also known to have command over the wind and lightning.

Krahang’s powers are an integral part of his character, lending him both intrigue and fear. Among his most notable abilities is the capability to fly, allowing him to traverse vast distances quickly. This ability contributes to his association with nighttime and the supernatural realms. In some tales, Krahang is believed to possess the power of invisibility, enabling him to escape capture or observation.

Another significant aspect of Krahang’s abilities is his deep connection to nature and the elemental forces. He is sometimes associated with fertile lands, and local folklore suggests that he can influence crops and livestock. His significance is intertwined with agricultural practices in rural Thailand, where his blessings are sought for successful yields.

Additionally, Krahang is said to have the power to shape-shift, transforming into different forms to trick or engage with humans. This ability underscores the dual nature of Krahang, simultaneously representing benevolence and malice.

Modern Day Influence

Several novels and literary work have stemmed from the legend of Tuwaang including “Malakas at Maganda”,“Bongkatolan –the woman warrior, “Epic of Tuwaang Saving the Maiden of the Buhong Sky”, “Tuwaang Saving the Maiden of Monawon from the Deathless Man”, “Epic of Lam-Ang”, “Tale of Banna” and “The Story of the Golden Rice from the Skyworld.”He

Source

“Transcending cultural barriers in Thai mythology: Unveiling the intercultural dynamics through the “Home Sweet Home” video game’s translation” (2024-11-28) – Source for physical traits and cultural influence.

“Indian Myth, Korean Wave, and ‘Thainess’: Politics of Hybridity in Thai Literature in the 21st Century” (2024-05-30) – Source for family connections and other names.

“How the hungry ghost mythology reconciles materialism and spirituality in Thai death rituals” (2015-09-14) – Source for powers and abilities.

“The Unmasking of Burmese Myth in Contemporary Thai Cinema” (2016) – Source for modern influences.

“The Khon – A Thai Dance Drama” (2022) – Source for cultural representation in performing arts.