Every year on July 28, the people of Thailand come together to celebrate one of their most cherished public holidays – H.M. King’s Birthday. This special day honors the birth of the current monarch, King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, known as Rama X. Born on this date in 1952, he is the only son of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit.
The Path to the Throne
King Vajiralongkorn’s journey to the throne began in 1972, when at the age of 20, he was designated as crown prince by his father. However, it wasn’t until several decades later, following the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on October 13, 2016, that he was expected to ascend to the throne. After a period of mourning, Vajiralongkorn accepted the throne on the night of December 1, 2016, becoming the tenth monarch of the Chakri dynasty.
The official coronation ceremony took place from May 4-6, 2019, in an elaborate three-day event steeped in centuries-old traditions. Despite the delay between his ascension and coronation, the Thai government retroactively declared his reign to have begun on October 13, 2016, immediately following his father’s death.
Celebrating the King’s Birthday
H.M. King’s Birthday is a time for nationwide celebrations and displays of respect and affection for the monarch. The holiday, which shifted to July 28 in 2017 from its previous date of December 5 (the birthday of the late King Bhumibol), is marked by a range of ceremonies, festivities, and traditions.
On this day, government offices, businesses, and banks typically close as the nation comes together to honor their King. Many Thais wear yellow, the color associated with the monarchy, as a sign of respect. Officials attending ceremonies often don cream-colored attire with a black ribbon.
In Bangkok and throughout the country, streets are decorated with flags, portraits of the King, and colorful lights. In the evening, buildings are illuminated and fireworks light up the sky. Many Thai people also engage in acts of charity and service in honor of their King, such as donating blood or distributing food to the less fortunate.
The Role of the Monarchy
Thailand’s monarchy is deeply revered and holds a central place in Thai society and culture. Despite the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, the institution continues to command great respect and serves as a unifying force for the nation.
Under Thailand’s constitutional monarchy, the King plays a largely ceremonial role, standing above partisan politics while still contributing to the development and well-being of the kingdom and its people. The monarchy is seen as a pillar of stability and a guardian of Thai traditions and values.
H.M. King’s Birthday is not just a celebration of the current monarch, but also a reflection of the enduring love and respect the Thai people have for their royal family. It’s a day that brings the nation together, reinforcing the deep cultural and historical ties that bind Thailand and its people to their King.