Mongkol - Ceremonial headpiece worn by fighters.

Whenever I'm at a Muay Thai show the ceremonial headpiece worn as the fighters enters the ring is always a discussion point. The Mongkol is a ceremonial and sacred headpiece made of intertwining rope, thread and silk. 

It is said that the Mongkol dates back to time of war where soldiers were not permitted to take personal belongings into battle. The headpiece would be made from personal possessions, maybe a lock of hair from their children or wife, maybe a cut of fabric from their clothing. The Mongkol would also contain prayers from family members and monks. A sentimental item to remind them of home and bring them good luck on the battlefield. 

Today the Mongkol is predominately owned by the instructor, given to him by his instructor and eventually passed down to the next generation once a worth successor has been chosen.  Its often taken by the instructor to the local Buddhists Monk who blesses the headpiece for good luck and protection in the forthcoming battle (fight). Its worn around the fighters head - Buddhists believe this is the most sacred part of the body and is said to represent.

You wear the Mongkol as you enter the ring to show respect to your gym, instructors and family members, your saying the fight is not all about you, your also asking to be protected in the ring by wearing a blessed item so close to your head.

Everyone should learn about the traditions and history of wearing ceremonial items when fighting, a head piece is only part of the ceremony, it could be classed as disrespectful if the other formalities were ignored whilst wearing the Mongkol for example not performing the Waikru or Ram Muay.

The Mongkol is very sacred and should be the centre piece of every gym, it should never come in contact with the floor or a persons feet and should only be touched by the most senior instructor, failure to follow these simple rules could make the Mongkol lose its magical powers and it would need to be re-blessed.

The Monkol is also known as a Mongkon or Mongkong. I guess the actual pronunciation has been lost in translation or perhaps its regional.