"It will be recorded in history that the complete Tripitaka recital was held for the first time during the reign of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej," said Preecha Kanthiya, director-general of the Religious Affair Department, which organised the event.

The reading of the 45 books of the Tripitaka, the Buddhist canon, published during the reign of King Rama VII, began at the auspicious time of 9.09am, with 100 monks and lay Buddhists and will be performed non-stop for seven days and nights until next Monday.

Another version of the Tripitaka published in the reign of King Rama V is also on display at the event. It is the last copy remaining in the Kingdom and kept at Wat Bangkradee in Bangkok's Bang Bon district.

The recital - the first since Buddhism was introduced to the country more than 800 years ago - was presided over by Phra Maha Narongsak Thitiyano of Maha Chula Buddhist University.

He said that according to Buddhist belief, the Tripitaka performance would bring enormous merit to the Kingdom. It could prevent disasters and disorder in the country.

"I invite Buddhists to join the recital to mark His Majesty the King's birthday," he said.

Activities in the event include exhibitions and praying competitions.

Police, military and municipal officials have been deployed to tighten security in the area. Only four gates are provided for visitors, and all vehicles are prohibited from entering.

Today, Culture Minister Khaisri Sri-aroon will send off four caravans to promote Makha Bucha Day throughout Bangkok.

Provincial Buddhism offices across the country will hold a ceremony for people to avow themselves as Buddhists on Thursday, two days before Makha Bucha Day.

Candle-lighting rites to bless HM the King will be held in Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai and Songkhla tomorrow evening, broadcast live on Channel 11. Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont will lead the rite in Bangkok.

The Chiang Mai Buddhism Office will launch a Dharma caravan in the provincial capital.

Pakamard Jaichalard

The Nation