The people of Thailand consider the birthday of their king – His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX – as one of the most important events of the year. December 5, the King’s birthday, is a very significant date every year; this day is also celebrated as the country’s Father’s Day, since the people look up to the King as the symbolic father of Thailand. The love and reverence that the Thai people have for the King’s generosity and accomplishments will be seen in the way the whole nation celebrates this auspicious date for their beloved father figure.
His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej has reigned since June 9, 1946 – making him the world’s longest serving head of state, and also the world’s longest reigning current monarch. The King is credited with spearheading the transition of Thailand to democracy during the 1990s; he is also the head of the ruling Royal House of Chakri, and the head of state. Although His Majesty’s power is limited to that of being a symbolic figurehead, he is still much revered and loved by the nation as a whole.
This year, His Majesty’s 85th birthday falls on a Wednesday. As with all of the King’s birthday celebrations for the previous years, it is expected that homes and buildings all across Thailand will be decorated with the national flag, bunting made out mostly of the color yellow, and portraits of His Majesty. The Grand Palace and Bangkok’s Ratchadamnoen Avenue will be made to look spectacular once more, as thousands of vibrantly-colored marigolds will be used to adorn the streets. An alms-giving ceremony is done in the morning will be followed by day filled with cultural and musical performances at Sanam Luang. Ratchadamnoen Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic for the 5th of December to give the people the opportunity to leisurely walk around, showing their deep admiration and appreciation for the colorful illuminations and displays; closing the road to traffic will also ensure the safety of the pedestrians who wish to look at the portraits of His Majesty without being hurried.
On the evening of the King’s birthday itself, the roads around Sanam Luang and Ratchadamnoen will remain closed to traffic, in preparation for the thousands of people who will take to the streets as part of the joyous celebration. A candle-lighting ceremony will be witnessed by the whole nation, followed by a breathtaking display of fireworks to add to the festival atmosphere that clearly shows the love, respect, and admiration that the people have for their beloved King.
Photo by tiseb
