All of Thailand is excitedly looking forward to the kingdom’s first royal coronation in nearly seven decades. After years of preparation, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn will be ascending to the throne in a series of elaborate events from 4 to 6 of May.
The Thai royal coronation is influenced by various religions and cultures, and comprises practices aimed at blessing and elevating the status of the king to a divine level.
There are hundreds of events leading up to the actual coronation, but two of the most highlighted in the royal coronation ceremony, called Phra Ratcha Phithi Boromma Racha Phisek, are the RoyalPurification Ceremony (Song Phra Muratha Bhisek) and the Anointment Ceremony (Abhisek).
The royal processions are events meant to welcome and bless the new king. (In ancient times, the Royal Land Procession and the Royal Barge Procession were supposed to have exhibited the military strength of the kingdom.) The public and visitors will get the chance to see the monarch as he majestically parades around a sprawling temple complex in the Old Town.
The land procession will circle Wat Bovoranives, Wat Rajabopidh, and Wat Phra Chetuphon. All throughout, the king will sit on the Bhudtan Thong Royal Palanquin, carried by 16 bearers.
Mystical as it is graceful, the Royal Barge Procession would take place on the Chao Phraya River (back and forth between Tha Ratcha Woradit Pier and Wat Arun). The two Royal Processions mark the conclusion of the Royal Coronation Ceremony.
