King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand turns 83 today! Not only is he the longest reigning king in Thailand(64 years), he is also the longest-reigning monarch in the world. During his long reign, he has seen over 15 coups, 16 constitutions, and 27 changes of prime ministers. The Thais love him like no other, and to speak ill of him is a crime worthy of 3 to 15 years imprisonment. In honor of the king(and his wife, Queen Sirikit, whom I regretfully did not give as much mention to on HER birthday, August 12), I have put together a handful of photos that I think really capture the king's essence, if you will. Following the photos, please shut out all other noise in the room, turn up your speakers, and enjoy the short video at the bottom(I recommend making it full screen); before every movie in every cinema in Thailand, this clip(or a similar version) is shown. Every member of the audience stands for the duration of the song to pay respect to the king and all he's done for his people.
King Bhumibol was formally crowned Rama IX on 5 May 1950, though he took over the throne from his late brother on 9 June 1946.
King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit(whom he met in Paris; she was the daughter of the Thai embassador to France) were married on 28 April 1950, only a week before his coronation. They have four children together.
His Majesty is an accomplished saxophone player and jazz composer, and here he is alongside Benny Goodman on clarinet.
And here with the Queen of England.
The king and his dog, Thong Daeng.
Serving his people.
"Bless The King"
Now how can you not love the king after watching that?
1 comment:
Hearing the King's song sure made me homesick for the years I spent in Thailand. Rosa
Post a Comment