Bangkok: His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen attended the royal ceremony commemorating Chakri Day, honoring King Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulalok Maharat and the Chakri Dynasty Anniversary, 2026. Today, at 5:28 PM, the royal couple proceeded to the Phra Phutthayodfa Bridge Monument to lay floral wreaths and light incense and candles as a tribute to King Phra Phutthayodfa Chulalok the Great.
According to Thai News Agency, the Day of King Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulalok Maharat, also known as Chakri Day, is observed annually on April 6th to remember the reign of the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty. King Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulalok Maharat ascended the throne on April 6, 2325 (Buddhist Era), marking the beginning of a prosperous era for Thailand, with Bangkok as its capital.
After the ceremony, the King proceeded to the Ubosot of Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram to participate in rituals involving floral offerings and lighting of incense and candles. These acts were performed in homage to the Emerald Buddha and past monarchs, reinforcing the significance of the Chakri Dynasty.
The King further participated in ceremonies at the Phra Thep Bidon Palace, paying respect to the royal statues of former monarchs alongside the Queen. These rituals emphasize the historical and cultural importance of the Chakri Dynasty, founded by King Rama I, who moved the capital from Thonburi to its current location and implemented significant legal reforms.
Additionally, His Majesty granted audiences to various dignitaries and officials, including General Natthaphol Nakpanich and senior military officers, to swear oaths of allegiance. The King also met with Mr. Nagares Singh, Ambassador of India, who was bidding farewell, and General Surayud Chulanont, President of the Privy Council, who presented a new Privy Councillor to take an oath of office.
Later, the King granted an audience to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the newly appointed Cabinet members to take their oaths before assuming office. On each occasion, the King provided guidance to officials in performing their duties effectively.