Phan Thai Norasing

The real-size statue of Phan Thai Norasing

Phan Thai Norasing (Thai: พันท้ายนรสิงห์) is a legendary figure mentioned in some later editions of the royal chronicles of Ayutthaya. He is described as a coxswain of King Sanphet VIII's royal barge in the Ayutthaya period and is famous as a symbol of honesty and integrity. According to records, Phan Thai Norasing served his duty as the coxswain until around 1704 when an accident happened during the king's fishing trip, causing damage to the royal barge. From this, he willingly accepted the penalty according to ancient Thai law, which was execution, despite being given a pardon. There are many monuments dedicated to him in places related to his story, such as those presumed to be his execution spot. The story of Phan Thai Norasing has been adapted into various forms of media including films, TV series, and musicals, with possibly altered or extended plots but preserving the core of the story regarding honesty.