Ramasura’s Thunderous Axe (รามสูรขว้างขวาน) is inspired by the Thai mythological tale of Ramasura and Mekhala, a legend deeply connected to the origins of thunder and lightning in Thai folklore.

According to the story, Ramasura, a mighty giant, fell deeply in love with the celestial goddess Mekhala. However, Mekhala did not return his affections, and her rejection enraged Ramasura. In his fury, he hurled his massive axe toward her, splitting the skies. Mekhala, possessing a magical crystal that emitted dazzling light, evaded the attack effortlessly, leaving Ramasura furious. The clash between Mekhala’s radiant light and Ramasura’s powerful strike is believed to be the celestial cause of lightning and thunder—Mekhala’s light flashing across the sky and Ramasura’s axe creating the roaring thunder.

This piece, composed for Euphonium-Tuba Sextet, embodies the strength and grandeur of Ramasura through the deep, resonant timbre of the euphoniums and tubas, instruments that naturally convey power and command. At the same time, the lyrical and expressive qualities of the euphonium reflect both Ramasura’s longing and the fleeting elegance of Mekhala.

A notable feature of this composition is the use of flutter-tongue technique, which enhances the imagery of crackling thunder and raging storms, bringing the legend to life. Additionally, the opening note F# (F sharp) carries symbolic significance, derived from the Thai word ฟ้า (fá), meaning sky, where the rising inflection mirrors the sharpness of the lightning’s strike.

Commissioned by Thailand Tuba Euphonium Ensemble, Ramasura’s Thunderous Axe received its world premiere at ThaiTEC 2025, conducted by Professor Jinnawat Mansap.