Thailand prepares for King Bhumibol Adulyadej's funeral: Thousands bid goodbye to 'father of the nation'
Thailand’s late King Bhumibol Adulyadej will receive a lavish send-off during a spectacular five-day funeral in Bangkok
)
Thailand’s late King Bhumibol Adulyadej will receive a lavish send-off this week during a spectacular five-day funeral centered around a cremation at a gilded pyre in Bangkok’s historic heart on Thursday. AP
)
Steeped in centuries of royal tradition and overseen by strict palace protocols, the elaborate $90 million ceremony, including a great victory royal chariot, will draw an estimated quarter million Thais to bid farewell to the “father” of the nation, who died last year aged 88. Reuters
)
Black-clad mourners thronged Bangkok’s historic quarter before dawn, as Thailand plunged into a year of griveing after the death of Adulyadej, whose reign lasted for seven decades. Reuters
)
The funeral will commence from 25 October and will be led by Bhumibol’s only son King Maha Vajiralongkorn. On its way to the cremation site, the funeral procession will pass tens of thousands of black-clad mourners who are expected to bow and prostrate where possible. AP
)
Royals and dignitaries from over 40 countries will attend the cremation, including Britain’s Prince Andrew, Japan’s Prince Akishino and Princess Akishino, Queen Maxima from the Netherlands, the King and Queen of Bhutan and US Secretary of Defence James Mattis. AP
)
King Bhumibol is often referred to as “father” by Thais and is credited with reviving the popularity of the monarchy in Thailand. He played a pivotal role in maintaining stability during years of political upheaval and rapid development. Reuters
 "US ready to ‘impose costs’ on Russia if war in Ukraine drags on, says Hegseth")
 "US tells Hamas to stop violence against Gaza civilians and disarm 'without delay'")
 "China seizes 60,000 maps mislabelling Taiwan, omitting South China Sea islands")
 "Syria’s Sharaa pledges to honor Russia ties, seeks economic and military support in Kremlin visit")
 "US ready to ‘impose costs’ on Russia if war in Ukraine drags on, says Hegseth")
 "US tells Hamas to stop violence against Gaza civilians and disarm 'without delay'")
 "China seizes 60,000 maps mislabelling Taiwan, omitting South China Sea islands")
 "Syria’s Sharaa pledges to honor Russia ties, seeks economic and military support in Kremlin visit")
Top Shows
