Religious Rites Held On King’s Birthday

BANGKOK, December 4 (TNA) - Thais throughout the country on Sunday performed religious rites to celebrate their revered His Majesty the King’s 84th birthday. In the capital, Bangkok governor Mom Rajawong Sukhumbhand Paribatra led the people in offering alms to 185 monks at Sanam Luang. Religious rites of Brahmin, Sikh, Islam, Christian and Buddhist were also performed. Representatives from the five religions plan to hail and sing ‘Long Live the King’ this evening as the monarch celebrates his birthday Monday. Similar activities were also performed in upcountry. In the southern province of Trang, people gathered at the clock tower in the provincial seat and attended a Buddhist religious ceremony in recognition of His Majesty the King’s numerous activities for the benefits of the country and his subjects. People in the northern capital of Chiang Mai, led by the provincial governor Mom Luang Panadda Diskul, gathered at the pavilion and chanted ‘Long Live the King’ before planting nine ‘Yang’ trees along Chiang Mai – Lamphun Road in honour for the King. Royal prayers were chanted at a temple in Mae Sariang district of Mae Hong Son province aimed at extending the King’s life while many devout Buddhists offered alms to monks. In the northernmost province of Chiang Rai, hill tribesmen from 18 districts paid respects before the portrait of His Majesty the King and presented honorable shields to 127 outstanding fathers this year for their good deeds in taking care of their children. (TNA)