Phra Kanchaisri, also known simply as Phra Kal, is a deity of Thai popular religion whose worship traces back to ancient Indian tradition and who is traditionally venerated as a pair alongside Kali. The pairing was originally named Phra Kal Phra Kuli or Phra Kal Kuli, but the word Kuli was gradually distorted in pronunciation to the more ominous-sounding Kli, and around the reign of King Rama IV the ending was changed to the more auspicious Chai Si to soften the name for official use. Despite these linguistic changes, worship of the deity has continued in Thai popular belief, merging with local animist practice, and a revered image of Phra Kanchaisri is housed in the Bangkok City Pillar Shrine.
Facts
Attestation
Veneration TodayActively venerated in a living tradition 1 HistoricityNot a historical person: a divine or other-than-human being 1 Function
Domain / FunctionProtection and guardianship 1 Belief
TheologyPolytheistic: many gods 1 Sources
1. The Facts on File Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend
Anthony S. Mercatante, revised and expanded by James R. Dow, Facts on File
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