Inao, known in Thai as “อิเหนา,” is among the most celebrated masterpieces of classical Thai literature. Its tale—woven with themes of love, fate, royal duty, and rivalry—has captivated Thai audiences for centuries. Based on the Javanese Panji stories, the narrative found its place in the Siamese court during the Ayutthaya period and was later adapted and refined by royal poets of the Rattanakosin era. But to fully grasp the drama’s depth, it’s crucial to know its key characters—their roles, motivations, and how they reflect the social ideals and dilemmas of their era.
Inao unfolds in a mythical Southeast Asian realm peopled by princes, princesses, kings, and advisors. The central story revolves around Prince Inao of the Kurepan kingdom and Princess Bussaba of Daha. Betrothed since childhood, their romance is thrown into chaos by misunderstandings, political intrigue, and the interventions of other suitors and schemers. As passions flare and kingdoms teeter on war, the poem explores issues of loyalty, pride, forgiveness, and the meaning of true love.
Let us introduce the leading figures of this grand epic and clarify who is who in the tale of Inao.
King Kurepan (ท้าวกุเรปัน) As the reigning monarch of Kurepan, King Kurepan is the father of Prince Inao. He is depicted as just and dignified, upholding royal propriety and the responsibilities of kingship. Importantly, he helps arrange the betrothal of his son to Princess Bussaba as part of a political alliance, setting the story in motion. He embodies the archetype of the wise, paternal ruler but is also conflicted by his love for his son and the demands of state Thaigoodview.
Princess Jintara Wati (จินตหราวาตี) A secondary yet important figure, Princess Jintara Wati is a consort of King Kurepan and the mother of Prince Inao. She represents the virtues of classical femininity—gentleness, loyalty, and wisdom. Her presence is a stabilizing force in the royal family, often providing counsel during moments of conflict within the palace.
Princess Bussaba (บุษบา) Princess Bussaba, daughter of King Daha, is Inao’s intended bride and the heart of the tale’s romantic conflict. Renowned for her beauty, wit, and dignity, she embodies the idealized image of Thai womanhood. The succession of misunderstandings and heartbreaks she endures highlight her emotional endurance. Often placed in situations out of her control, she demonstrates agency through resilience and, at times, rebellion against expectations Thaigoodview.
Prince Inao (อิเหนา) The protagonist, Prince Inao, is a character of legendary charm and complexity. Valorous, poetic, and impulsive, Inao finds himself torn between love and loyalty, duty and desire. Despite being betrothed to Bussaba, Inao’s affections waver, and he is enmeshed in romantic intrigues that lead him away from his preordained path. His vacillation causes much of the drama that follows, making him both a tragic hero and a symbol of the inner struggles faced by those carrying the burdens of tradition and personal longing Thaigoodview.
Prince Charka (จรกา) Prince Charka is a rival suitor from the neighboring kingdom. Unlike Inao, he is less favored in appearance and refinement but is persistent and ambitious. His pursuit of Princess Bussaba, often underhanded, adds a layer of rivalry that complicates the unfolding events. He serves as a foil to Inao, emphasizing the importance of virtue and sincerity over mere status or persistence.
Prince Wihayasakha (วิหยาสะกา) A smaller but integral part of the royal circle, Prince Wihayasakha is a dignitary and a close confidant within the court. He often acts as an advisor and plays roles in pivotal decisions throughout the story, reflecting the importance of trusted counselors in Thai court culture Thaigoodview.
Princess Madevi (มะเดหวี) Princess Madevi is another secondary wife of King Kurepan and stepmother to Inao. Though not as central as other figures, her presence rounds out the royal household, reinforcing the themes of familial complexity and courtly alliances that are hallmarks of the era’s literature.
The characters’ tangled relationships and shifting fortunes illustrate not just personal dilemmas but the wider world of Thai courtly duty, social hierarchy, and the abiding power of destiny. The classical story continues to hold a mirror to Thai values—loyalty to parents and rulers, struggle between personal desire and social obligation, and the pursuit of virtue in the face of adversity.
For Thai readers, the persistent fame of Inao lies in its vivid blend of human passion and cultural ideals. The characters, though rooted in Javanese legend, have been reimagined again and again on the Thai stage—through classical dance (Khon), puppetry, and modern media—cementing their place in the nation’s cultural memory Dek-D.
Understanding the roles of King Kurepan, Princess Jintara Wati, Princess Bussaba, Prince Inao, Prince Charka, Prince Wihayasakha, and Princess Madevi allows a deeper appreciation of the story’s enduring significance. These names and titles, echoed on school reading lists and in dramatic performances, carry the timeless lessons and lingering questions of Thai society—about duty, humanity, and the true cost of love.
For those exploring Thai culture, engaging with Inao’s cast is a rewarding way to connect with the nation’s poetic past and its ongoing dialogue between tradition and change. Whether reading the original literature or watching a performance, keep a guide to these characters close—your experience, and your understanding, will be immeasurably enriched.
Sources: