Bangkok: Celebrating 243 years of Bangkok, the government extends an invitation to the public to join in the festivities under royal patronage from April 23 to 27, offering a chance to proudly experience Thai cultural heritage.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sasikarn Wattanachan, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with various government agencies, private sectors, and religious, arts, and cultural networks, has organized the ‘243rd Anniversary of Rattanakosin under Royal Benevolence’ event. The event will take place at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, the National Museum, Bangkok, and Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan, celebrating the 243rd anniversary of Rattanakosin and commemorating King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great, the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty, who established Rattanakosin as the capital of Thailand on April 21, 1782.
On April 20, 2025, religious activities and a ceremony to worship the gods were held at Chulalongkorn University. The following day, a merit-making ceremony dedicated to former kings and an alms-giving ceremony for 99 monks took place at Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm, accompanied by a homage ceremony at the City Pillar Shrine.
From April 23 to 27, Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park will host an Immersive Art Exhibition titled ‘Light of Royal Wisdom’ to honor the current and previous monarchs of the Chakri Dynasty. The park will also feature a royal pavilion, cultural performances, and demonstrations of Rattanakosin cultural heritage, including Thai food and desserts.
The National Museum, Bangkok, will offer cultural performances, nighttime museum visits, outdoor movie screenings, and sales of products and food. Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan will host the event ‘Visit the Temple Fair, Relive the Past, Admire the Way of Life in the Kadi Chin-Khlong San Area,’ featuring activities like paying respect to the Buddha, performing arts, cultural tourism, and contests.
Ms. Sasikarn stated, “The government would like to invite our fellow citizens to join in expressing their loyalty and remembering the kindness of every monarch of the Chakri Dynasty. Join the activities of ‘243 Years of Rattanakosin under the Royal Benevolence,’ held grandly from April 23 to 27, to continue the royal intention to conserve Thai arts and culture. For more information, contact the 1765 cultural hotline or the Facebook fan page of the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture.”