
King's
Birthday or Father's Day is celebrated on December 5, the birthday of His
Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the monarch of Thailand. King's birthday is
a national holiday and is celebrated all over the country with great
enthusiasm. The event is used by the loyal people of Thailand to express
their reverence for their King.
His Majesty
His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej or Rama IX, is the longest serving
monarch in the history of Thailand. Constitutional head of the country, he
ascended to throne on 9 June, 1946. Ninth King of the Chakri Dynasty, he was
born on December 5, 1927, to Prince and Princess Mahidol of Songkhla.
The Celebrations
The King's Birthday is an event used by his loyal subjects to express their
heart-felt affection and reverence to him. All public structures and homes
in Thai land are eleborately bedecked with flags and lights, predominantly
of yellow color. Capital Bangkok, specially Grand Palace and Ratchadamnoen
Avenue areas, exude pageantry, adorned with thousands of flowers.
Religious ceremonies dedicated to the King are held all over the nation.
People pray for their beloved King's good health and happiness. Thai skies
sparkle with elaborate fireworks. Thousands of people throng Bangkok streets
in evening to express their joy on the occasion.
For Utmost Enjoyment
Bangkok is the best place in the country to enjoy the celebrations. Do
remember that streets around Sanam Luang and Ratchadamnoen are prohibited to
traffic. One can reach the area, and just stroll on the streets,
traffic-free but brimming with people, watching the glittering sky.