Bangkok: The government organized a grand ceremony to continue the royal destiny on the occasion of the auspicious royal ceremony. This event was held to prolong the royal life and featured a procession of Bodhi trees, marking a significant occasion of royal celebration.
According to Thai News Agency, the event was a collaborative effort between the government, Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm, the Northern Sangha, and various sectors to honor His Majesty the King. The ceremony coincided with his birthday anniversary, matching that of King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great, the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty. The event took place at Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm, a temple associated with King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great.
The procession included 73 Bodhi trees, representing the King’s age, alongside royal offerings, which were carried from Sanam Luang to the Ubosot of Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm. The ceremony featured Buddhist chanting and the royal destiny continuation, led by Somdej Phra Maha Thirajarn, the abbot of the temple, and General Surayud Chulanont, the president of the clergy and laity. Key figures such as Mr. Chusak Sirinil, the Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, participated, alongside related agencies, in honoring the King. The Bodhi trees were placed around a sacred Bodhi tree, with a procession presenting royal offerings at the Royal Monument Plaza, King Rama I.
The Royal Fate-Continuing Ceremony included 74 monks chanting traditional Lanna style prayers, with a procession of Bodhi tree supports offered around the main tree. The supports consisted of 9 auspicious core wood trees and 64 bamboo trees, totaling 73. Each auspicious tree was carved with the royal initials “?.?.?.” and a large serpent, symbolizing the Year of the Dragon, the year of the King’s birth.
The Royal Ceremony is a significant tradition in Thailand, highlighting cultural values of gratitude and respect within the monarchy. The government and various sectors united to demonstrate loyalty to the monarchy and national unity, organizing events to honor the King on his birthday anniversary, paralleling King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great, in 2568 B.E. This included royal ceremonies, projects, and activities throughout January 2568.
In addition to the royal ceremony, celebrations were organized jointly by government and private sectors, offering blessings in central and regional areas with simultaneous activities.