While not an outright Buddhist holiday, Chakri Day is an important observance for modern Thailand. It celebrates the founding of the Chakri Dynasty. King Bhumipol Adulyadej, or King Rama IX, is the ninth monarch of this noble lineage.
Founding of the Chakri Dynasty
The Chakri Dynasty was founded after the Burmese sacked Ayutthaya. Based on new scholarship, former King Taksin installed his half-brother and close friend, Chaophraya Chakri (King Rama I), as the new king. One of Chakri’s first acts was to establish Bangkok as the new capital.
Today, the king performs a royal ceremony to pay respect to his ancestor, King Rama I. Banks, schools and government offices close, but most other businesses are still open. Thai people may light incense and lay wreaths of flowers at prominent statues of King Rama I.
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[...] this day by expressing their thanks to the kings of the Chakri family. They often do this by putting flowers on statues of Rama I. The King also performs a special ceremony to pay respects to his ancestor. Government offices, [...]
[...] this day by expressing their thanks to the kings of the Chakri family. They often do this by putting flowers on statues of Rama I. The King also performs a special ceremony to pay respects to his ancestor. Government offices, [...]