The Cham Imam Sann community celebrated mawlid on top of Udong Mountain on September 18, 2011. It is coincident with the fourth day of the 15 days of ancestors’ ceremony called Pchum Ben. The Imam leader Oknha Knuor Kaitoam, his followers from Kampong Chhnang, Pursat and Battambang provinces, researchers and reporters were present during the ceremony. It is hosted right after the villagers finish their transplanting. A variety of traditional cakes decorated with money and flowers is common for this ceremony. Cham men and women, especially senior people, wear traditional dress. For women, they wear long black sleeves shirt and skirt. Cham men are donned with white costume and kufis. The Imam Sann community also observes another mawlid in their village, usually in March, to commemorate Muhammad Birthday.

Historically, Imam Sann was a revered and enlightened leader and was loyal to King Angduong. He was later granted a place to meditate and live, which is now on the left hand side of Udong Mountain. From that time on, Imam Sann followers come to visit the place and celebrate this mawlid to commemorate the Imam every year.

This Cham Imam Sann community has long-term and good relationship with Cambodian King. Its leader is usually invited to join any event, which is related to, and organized by, the King. This special ceremony is celebrated annually, except during the Khmer Rouge era. (Text by: Farina So)