BANGKOK — The Royal Barge Procession for the Royal Kathin ceremony on the Chao Phraya River concluded smoothly. His Majesty the King remarked to the Commander of the Royal Thai Navy that it was “very beautiful… beautiful.”
On Sunday, October 27, the sky was clear and sunny throughout the ceremony. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration provided facilities for the public and tourists to witness the procession along the route without any obstacles. This was in contrast to the unexpected “rain bomb” phenomenon that occurred during the final rehearsal on October 22.
This Royal Barge Procession was organized following ancient royal traditions with a long history, conducted with dignity to celebrate the special occasion of His Majesty’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary on July 28, 2024.
The procession consisted of 52 royal barges, including 4 major royal barges:
- The Anantanakkharat Royal Barge carrying the Royal Kathin robes
- The Suphannahong Royal Barge carrying Their Majesties the King and Queen
- The Anekchattibhuchong Royal Barge carrying Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana and Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti
- The Narai Song Suban Royal Barge of King Rama IX as a reserve vessel
The formation consisted of 5 rows in 3 columns, spanning 1,280 meters in length and 90 meters in width, with 2,412 oarsmen. Additionally, the Air and Coastal Defense Command was responsible for 5 escort vessels.
At Wat Arun, His Majesty the King performed the Royal Kathin ceremony, with Prince Dipangkorn presenting additional Kathin offerings to the monks. After the ceremony concluded, they departed by royal vehicle.
Following the successful event, the Royal Thai Navy issued a letter of thanks to all personnel involved, noting the King’s praise.
“Now that the ceremony has concluded smoothly, gracefully, and with appropriate royal dignity – with His Majesty remarking to the Commander of the Royal Thai Navy that it was ‘very beautiful, beautiful’ – we would like to thank all personnel who participated in their duties, from the planning and preparation stages, through rehearsals and various support roles, to the actual performance. The successful execution has earned public admiration and enhanced the reputation and image of both the nation and the Royal Thai Navy,” the letter stated.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra also expressed gratitude to all government agencies, military and civilian personnel who participated in organizing the ceremony, and praised the volunteers who assisted the public and tourists.
She emphasized how the event demonstrated the loyalty and bond between the monarchy and the people, as well as the unity of all sectors in organizing this occasion.
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