Biography of Luang Phor Up Khemajaro (Phra Atikarn Kassem) from Wat Thong Sai

Luang Phor Up Khémajaro (Luang Phor Happ) , also known by his monastic and administrative name Phra Atikarn Kasem Khémajaro , is a revered master from Nakhon Pathom province, associated with Wat Thong Sai (often also transcribed as Wat Thong Sae). He is particularly famous in the world of Thai amulets for his esoteric practices, spiritual influence, and the tradition linked to Mae Nang Phim within the temple.

Origins and youth in Nakhon Chai Si

Thai sources describe him as originating from the Nakhon Chai Si region in Nakhon Pathom province, with family roots in the Lam Bua area. Some biographies mention that as a child, he lived and was educated in a local monastic environment, particularly around Wat Klang Bang Kaew , which is said to have left a lasting impression on him through discipline, temple service, and close contact with renowned monks.

Note on dates: according to sources, his date of birth varies (some publications give early August 1920 , while others indicate mid-August 1922 ). This variation is quite common in biographies of elderly teachers; at the time, birth registration was rather haphazard.

Ordination and first transmissions

The accounts agree on one important point: Luang Phor Up was ordained around the age of 20. He then began studying the Dharma and ritual knowledge (wicha) with teachers in the region. He was initially a disciple of the Venerable Phra Ajarn Akhom Klang (Wat Thung Noi), before pursuing other transmissions.

Pilgrimages, the quest for esoteric teachings, and spiritual deepening

A central part of his legend stems from his study trips : some accounts describe journeys to Laos, Cambodia, and Burma to receive teachings and ritual methods from local masters. He is also said to have resided for a time at Wat Wang Chado before returning permanently to Wat Thong Sai , and then undertaking further quests to learn from masters mentioned in these same accounts.

Wat Thong Sai (Wat Thong Sae) in Nakhon Pathom,
the temple of his life

Luang Phor Up is closely linked to Wat Thong Sai , in the district of Nakhon Chai Si ( Nakhon Pathom province). Accounts describe a temple very frequented by Thai and foreign devotees who come to receive blessings, protection and consecrated objects.

Mae Nang Phim and the reputation in the world of amulets

In the amulet community, Luang Phor Up is regularly presented as a major master associated with the goddess Mae Nang Phim (sometimes called Pim Pha). Modern accounts link this tradition to learning received during travels, followed by dissemination at the temple through amulets, takut, and ritual practices, which is said to have contributed to his fame in Thailand and abroad.

Recent years and legacy

The Very Venerable Luang Phor Up passed away in 2012. The accounts evoke the continuity of worship and respect within the temple, with the presence of dedicated spaces (buildings, relics, statues, memory of the master) visited by the faithful.