“I shall reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people”. The line was uttered by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on 5 May 1950 at the coronation ceremony, four years after the King had acceded to the Throne. Against the backdrop of changes and crises in the country, the time-defying loyalty of Thai people for HM the King has never wavered. Coronation Day is the right occasion for Thais to express their loyalty for HM the King and cultivate it in younger generations.
The history of Coronation Day in Thailand dates back to the Sukhothai era when “Phor Khun Bang Klang Hao” was crowned as the first king of Sukhothai over seven hundred years ago. The coronation ceremony was later revived by Rama I of the Chakri Dynasty, an ancestor of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej or Rama IX. The ceremony had been held exclusively by the palace until Rama IV ordered that the coronation day be celebrated with the public nationwide.
During the present reign, HM the King’s coronation anniversary is celebrated on three days, from 3-5 May. There are merit-making ceremonies at the Royal Palace and the presentation of decorations to the people who have made contribution to the country. As for the general public, they can celebrate this auspicious occasion by decorating their residences with the national flags and attend religious ceremonies in honor of HM the King.
Apart from the celebrations, the coronation day is the day that reminds us of HM the King’s great contribution and dedication for the country. 66 years on since he was crowned, HM the King have initiated more than 4,000 projects to raise the quality of life of the Thai people in a sustainable manner. He is the first king to receive a special UNDP Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award and a UN award for contribution to intellectual property and inventions.
In overcoming challenges from capitalism and globalization, HM the King is like the North Star guiding Thailand. His principles in life, especially the Sufficiency Economy philosophy, and development guidelines have proven to be useful and appropriate for Thais. To express their gratitude and loyalty for HM the King, there is no better way than doing good deeds and contributing to the country.
