Inao: A Clear Guide to the Cast in Thailand’s Classic Epic
Inao, known in Thai as อิเหนา, stands as one of Southeast Asia’s most cherished pieces of classical literature. Its tale blends love, fate, royal duty, and political intrigue, captivating Thai audiences for generations. Rooted in the Javanese Panji stories, the narrative traveled to the Siamese court in Ayutthaya and was refined by royal poets of the Rattanakosin era. To truly understand its drama, readers should become acquainted with the main characters—their motives and how they reflect social ideals of their time.