May 4: Coronation Day of King Rama X – Public Holiday

The coronation of HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua took place on May 4, 2019 in Bangkok, since then, May 4 has been a public holiday in Thailand.

Please note: as the coronation day falls on a Sunday, the public holiday is postponed to Monday, May 5.

It was a highly anticipated event, as it marked the first coronation in Thailand in more than seven decades.

HM King Rama X ascended the throne in 2016, following the death of his father, HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great , who reigned for over 70 years.

The coronation ceremony was grand and elaborate, steeped in tradition and symbolism.

See: Coronation of the King of Thailand: Video of the first day's ceremonies

It began with a purification ritual, during which HM the King was bathed in holy water to symbolize the purification of his body and soul.

He was then anointed with consecrated oil and donned traditional robes, including a golden crown and a royal robe adorned with precious stones.

The ceremony was presided over by HM the King himself, who performed a series of ancient rituals and ceremonies, including the sprinkling of consecrated water, the conferring of royal titles and the presentation of a royal sceptre and sword.

Senior officials, foreign dignitaries and members of the public attended the event, which took place in Bangkok, to catch a glimpse of the king and show their respect and loyalty.

The coronation ceremony was not only a celebration of HM the King's accession to the throne, but also a symbol of continuity and stability in Thai society.

The monarchy has played an important role in Thai culture for centuries, and the coronation of HM King Rama X was a reminder of the deep reverence and respect the Thai people have for their King and his traditions.

See: The 10 Ramas: The Kings of the Chakri Dynasty of Thailand

Since his coronation, HM King Rama X has continued to exercise his duties as King of Thailand, including presiding over religious ceremonies, meeting with foreign dignitaries and engaging in philanthropic activities.

His reign was marked by a commitment to preserving and promoting Thailand's cultural heritage, as well as a drive to modernize the country's economy and infrastructure.

The coronation of HM King Rama X was a historic event in Thai history and a testament to the enduring power and importance of the monarchy in Thai society.

It was a day of celebration and renewal, a reaffirmation of Thailand's deep cultural roots and traditions, and a symbol of hope and continuity for the Thai people.

See also:

Coronation of King Rama X in Thailand: What you need to know

Royal barge procession in Thailand: final phase of King Rama X's coronation

Royal barge procession completes Thailand's king's coronation – video

Self-sufficiency economy in Thailand, the gift of Rama IX