"Mama Bucha" is a products set for worship sacred. To replace the use of conventional incense that causes air pollution, and also be the main cause of conflagration, while still keep the belief in the traditional worship of sacred.
Mama Bucha
Industrial design
User Experience Research
Tag3
Tag4
Incense in Thailand
Due to the widespread use of incense in Thailand, there have been significant problems with air pollution and occasional fire hazards. With this in mind, Dessearch has undertaken a project to design products for worshiping sacred objects as an alternative or reduction to the use of incense. The aim is to decrease air pollution and mitigate fire hazards caused by incense usage.
The result of this project has been showcased at the DesignPlant exhibition in the theme of "Better City" for Bangkok Design Week 2023.
Preserve Culture
Cultural etiquette in Thailand emphasizes the practice of paying respect to sacred objects to bring about inner happiness. Following the beliefs and adhering to the teachings is seen as a way to cultivate a sense of well-being.
Enhanced Experience
Creating a Sacred and Improved Worship and Meditation Experience, Safer Than Traditional Candle-Lighting Worship
Blend In
Modernize to Fit the Contemporary Environment for Individuals who Appreciate Contemporary Home Decor
Our Process
Due to the significant role that Buddhist institutions have played in Thai society for a long time, shaping attitudes, beliefs, and values, people seek spiritual reliance for a sense of security in life and self-confidence. This desire for spiritual support, knowledge, and virtues has led to widespread participation in religious activities, including regular acts of worship and paying homage to household deities. Consequently, the demand for incense sticks, a crucial material in these religious practices, currently exceeds one million pieces per year. This high demand has resulted in certain consequences.
Pain Points
Cancer-Causing Substances
A single incense stick is found to contain a quantity of cancer-causing substances similar to that of one cigarette. Research indicates that individuals working within temples may have up to four times higher levels of cancer-causing substances in their blood compared to the general population. Another study suggests that the main cause of monks' mortality is lung cancer, possibly resulting from smoking and exposure to incense smoke. Statistically, it is noteworthy that 50% of female lung cancer patients do not have a history of smoking or close proximity to smokers. Instead, a significant cause is attributed to the inhalation of cancer-causing substances from incense smoke.
Cause of fire
During the period from January to May 2022, there were 198 building fires and 823 grass and rubbish fires. Incense was among the top five causes of these incidents.
Is it possible to worship without lighting incense or not?
The act of lighting incense and candles has been a long-standing tradition in Thai culture, but in reality, worshiping the Buddha does not necessarily require both incense and candles every time. Worship can be divided into two forms:
1. Amisubucha (อามิสบูชา): This involves worshiping with physical objects such as incense, candles, flowers, fragrances, and other items.
2. Patibatbucha (ปฏิบัติบูชา): This form of worship involves practicing according to the teachings of the Buddha, including reciting prayers, observing precepts, cultivating virtues, and following other principles and guidelines taught by Lord Buddha."
User Insight
User Insight Description Placeholder
Insight
User Insight Description Placeholder
Insight
User Insight Description Placeholder
User Insight
"
The act of lighting incense is considered a form of worship with fragrance. The distinctive scent of this incense does not induce any gas discomfort for those inhaling it. On the contrary, it helps calm the mind and be present in the moment. If there is limited space and insufficient room to place incense burners, it is not necessary to have them. Worship can still be conducted simply by folding hands in prayer and focusing the mind to achieve a sense of tranquility
"
Phramaha Somchai Thanavuddho
Ideation Sketches
3D Rendering
Prototype & Testing
DesignPlant Better City for Bangkok Design Week 2023.
4 February-13 March 2023
Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC)