Loy Krathong Festival Marked by Tributes to Queen Mother,

BANGKOK, Nov 6 (TNA) - Thailand celebrated the annual Loy Krathong festival with tributes to Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother as officials and the public took part in events across the country.

The main event in Bangkok, held at Wat Arun Ratchawararam (Temple of Dawn), was organized by the Ministry of Culture under the theme "Loy Krathong Thai Style: A Tribute to the Mother of the Land." 

Deputy Prime Minister Borwornsak Uwanno presided over the opening ceremony, which honored the enduring contributions of Queen Sirikit. A major highlight was a drone show forming patterns as a sign of respect and remembrance. 

At Wat Arun, the public was able to float krathongs (small decorated floats) at dedicated "Eco-Friendly Ponds," offering a picturesque backdrop of the main temple prang. Eight separate floating chutes were also provided along the river to facilitate easy and safe floating of vessels made entirely from natural materials.

Separately, at ICONSIAM, a major Bangkok landmark, a highlight of the celebration was an elegant display of the Thai Royal Costume, initiated by the Queen Mother to conserve Thai art and culture. ICONSIAM also set up a 100-meter-long floating chute along the Chao Phraya River to ensure convenience and safety, preventing visitors from congregating on the pontoons.

In Sukhothai, the final night of the traditional "Loy Krathong and Candle Lighting" festival took place. The Provincial Governor led the ceremony to float the royal Krathong of His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn, Her Majesty Queen Suthida, and 11 other members of the Royal Family at the main pond in the Sukhothai historical park.

Meanwhile, the northeastern province of Khon Kaen elevated its annual Sithan Festival, also honoring the Queen Mother. The event featured a simulated Himalayan mountain, elaborate Naga sculptures, and 16,000 lanterns, enhancing its new status as an international exchange platform for countries including Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, and China.

In Bangkok, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his wife walked from Government House to Phadung Krung Kasem Canal to float their Krathong. When asked by reporters what wishes he would make, the Prime Minister replied that he prays every day, not just on Loy Krathong. "I ask for Thailand to prosper, to be peaceful and united. I ask that the people live well, have money to spend every day, save, and be happy," he said. -819 (TNA)