Palace Prints Prayer Books Marking Birth of Kings Rama V, VIII

Drawing by King Vajiralongkorn for the prayer book cover.

BANGKOK — His Majesty the King ordered the publication of Buddhist prayer books to commemorate the birth of two late monarchs, the palace announced Tuesday.

King Rama V (1853 – 1910) and King Rama VIII (1925 – 1946) share the same birthdate of Sep. 20. The prayer book cover features a drawing by King Vajiralongkorn, which depicts King Rama VIII and his family members in their youthful years.

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The drawing also includes a handwritten message by the king.

“Let this drawing be a blessing and moral support in doing good,” the message says. It is unclear how many prayer books were printed.

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The birthdays of the two late monarchs are rarely observed. On the other hand, the death anniversary of King Rama V – Oct. 23 – is a national holiday. There is no public holiday related to King Rama VIII, who is King Vajiralongkorn’s uncle.