The longest-reigning monarch in the world, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is Ramathibodi IX, a descendant of the Chakri dynasty. Chakri Memorial Day is a day that commemorates the establishment of the current royal lineage when Ramathibodi I ascended on the throne on April 6, 1782.
Military Commander Turned Ruler
Thong Duang, an Ayutthaya military commander who helped resist Burmese aggression, came to the throne when the people called for King Taaksin’s overthrow because of his weak leadership. Thong Duang, then known as Chakri by the people, was chosen to replace King Taaksin because he helped steer Siam (Thailand’s old name) out of the clutches of Burma and put down rebellions. His ascent to the throne was the start of the Chakri dynasty and established Bangkok as the new capital across the Chao Phraya River.
Commemorating the Contributions of the Chakri Kings
Chakri Memorial Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 6 in 2013. Because this falls on a weekend, the next workday – Monday, April 8 – will be an Observance Day as a compensatory non-workday. Government offices, banks and other institutions will be closed on this day, except for commercial establishments and tourist facilities that remain open during regular hours.
As the ninth king of the ruling dynasty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej leads the royal family in conducting religious ceremonies in the royal chapel, and presides over the wreath-laying ceremonies at the Royal Pantheon and at the statue of King Rama I at the Memorial Bridge. The country’s prime minister and all government officials join the King in paying homage to his predecessors, while the people join the celebrations in these locations or hold ceremonies in Chakri monuments and memorials across Thailand.
All government offices display the national flag on this day.
The Commoners’ Tribute to Chakri Monarchs
In Thailand, lese majeste, an offense against the royal family, is strictly implemented. Any negative remark about the monarchs and their families is meted out with imprisonment of up to 15 years.
As can be inferred from their laws, Thais regard their monarchs with the highest esteem, and this day is an opportunity for the people to express their gratitude for the contributions of the Chakri monarchs to consolidate Thailand and make it into a regional power player that it is today. The statues of King Rama I and memorials to the house of Chakri are all abloom with flowers and garlands on this day. There are forums held across the country to keep alive the contributions of the Chakri kings, from the release of Thailand from Burmese control, to the abolition of slavery, the fortification of the country, and the establishment of a constitutional government.
Thais, being predominantly Buddhists, also make meritorious offerings to the Chakri rulers in the Royal Pantheon as the reigning monarch leads the rituals in that location.
Photo by Caspar
