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Perhaps the most spectacular rite over which His Majesty presides is the Annual Presentation of Kathin Robes ceremony when he presents robes to monks to mark "Ok Phansa". The October rite marks the end of the three-month Rains Retreat (often called Buddhist Lent). One of the grandest processions in Asia, the Phraratchaphithi Phayuha Yatra Cholamak, (Royal Barge Procession) proceeds down the Chao Phraya River bearing the Royal Family in august majesty to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). The blaring of conch shells and trumpets, the thumping of stout poles on the decks to mark cadence, and the ancient chants sung by the oarsmen ring across the waters awe the watching crowds to silence.
The 52-vessel fleet is propelled by the muscled arms of more than 2,200 oarsmen. The most important barge, Suphannahongs, designed in the shape of a mythical swan, conveys the Royal Family. The hull of the 44.70 metres long, 3.15 metres wide and 90 centimetres high craft is elaborately carved in traditional designs covered in red lacquer and gold.
This magnificent procession is rarely staged. Revived in 1961 after a long hiatus, it was again staged in 1968, and 1982 (to mark the bicentennial of Bangkok 's establishment as the nation's capital and concurrently of the present Chakri Dynasty in 1782). In 1987, it was presented to celebrate the fifth cycle (sixtieth Birthday Anniversary) of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, in 1996 to celebrate the fiftieth year of his Accession to the Throne, in 1999, and in 2003 when Thailand hosted the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit attended by the world's political and business leaders.
This year, spectators are again fortunate to view it on 12 June. |
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