Buddhist gathering to honour HM
Organisers in Bangkok are preparing to host World Visakha Bucha Day celebrations from May 6 to May 12, when Buddhist leaders from 47 countries are expected to join in prayers marking the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession to the throne.
This is the second year that Thailand will host such an event. It will include an exhibition of Buddhism and cultural displays from various countries. There will also be drama and dance performances dedicated to His Majesty.
Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Suwat Liptapanlop, who is chairman of the organising committee for the International Day of Vesak, said the government has provided Bt69 million for the event.
May 7 will see the opening of a Buddhism Museum.
On May 8, Buddha relics from the Grand Palace will be placed at Sanam Luang for ceremonies of worship and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will preside over the opening of Buddhism Promotion Week.
On the following day the Princess will chair a prayer ritual at Wat Phra Kaew that will offer blessings to His Majesty for the 60th anniversary of his accession to the throne. Leading monks from Thailand and 47 other countries will join in the historic ritual, which will be the first time that Buddhist monks from foreign countries have prayed and offered blessings for His Majesty the King.
On May 10, 7,000 monks from Thailand and other countries, together with 12,000 Buddhists, will chant blessings for His Majesty in a candle-lit procession.
On May 12, people will be able to give alms to 560 monks at Sanam Luang.
Piyanart Srivalo
The Nation
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