Bangkok: The Ministry of Culture organized a merit-making ceremony, offering alms to 99 monks, as part of the event 'Under the Royal Grace, 243 Years of Rattanakosin'. Phra Dhammamongkol Wachiropas, assistant abbot of Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm, presided over the monks, while Ms. Sudawan Wungsupakitchkosol, Minister of Culture, led the laity in the ceremony dedicated to former kings. The event took place at the Ubosot of Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm in the Phra Nakhon District of Bangkok.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony included paying homage to sacred objects at the City Pillar Shrine. Participants offered incense and candles, recited prayers, applied gold leaf, and tied silk cloths at the replica of the main city pillar. They also placed garlands at the shrines of five guardian deities at the Bangkok City Pillar Shrine. The event was attended by prominent figures including Ms. Ploy Thanikul, Assistant Minister to the Ministry of Culture, and Mr. Phonphum Viphatiphumphateam, Assistant Minister to the Ministry of Culture.
Ms. Suda-wan Wangsupakitchkosol, Minister of Culture, highlighted the significance of the event, which was organized in collaboration with government agencies, private sectors, and religious, arts, and cultural networks. It commemorates the 243rd anniversary of Rattanakosin's founding and honors King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great, the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty. Rattanakosin was established as the capital of Thailand on April 21, 1782. The event aims to celebrate the contributions of the former kings who fostered religion, art, and the culture of the nation.
The event will be held at three main locations: Chulalongkorn Centenary Park, the National Museum in Bangkok, and Wat Prayurawongsawat. Activities include an immersive art exhibition, cultural performances, music, and a celebration of Rattanakosin's cultural heritage. The National Museum will host cultural performances and night museum visits, while Wat Prayurawongsawat will offer activities such as cultural tourism and a food contest representing three religions. For more details, the public can contact the cultural hotline or visit the Ministry of Culture's Facebook page.