December

The King’s Birthday : National Father’s Day

December 5 is an important day in the Thai calendar because all Thais celebrate the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, who was born on December 5, 1927. It is also regarded as National Father’s Day.

His Majesty King Bhumipol is the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty and the longest monarch in the history of Thailand. He is recognized as the heart of the Thais and father of the nation. He is held in high esteem, both by his own citizens and people in all parts of the world. He usually visits his people in both rural and urban areas to learn about their needs and helps them to solve their problems. For example, he has invented a machine for water treatment called “Chai Pattana” which is useful in both agriculture and industry. Because of his countless projects, he has helped Thailand to

become more prosperous. December 5 was announced as National Father’s Day in 1980, and the canna or Buddha Raksa has been used as the symbol for National Father’s Day.

All Thais perform various activities to pay tribute to the King. For example, members of the Royal Guards dressed in colorful uniforms loyally swear allegiance and march past members of the Royal Family, distinguished guests, and general public at the Royal Plaza; this is an impressive the event held a few days before his birthday. Other Thais express their gratitude to him by decorating houses and buildings with his portraits, flags and beautiful lights. Religious rites are held, and the whole nation prays to the Holy Triple Gem and all the sacred things in the universe to bless the King with good health, happiness and the strength to carry on his hard work.

At the same time, fathers are reminded to recognize their roles and responsibility for their families, and children pay tribute and express gratitude to their fathers by giving them presents or special meals. Fathers who have shown good care and educational support for their children are selected to be “Father of the Year”.

I have told you about many kinds of Thai festivals divided into family, religious, social, public ceremonies and regional festivals which can show you Thai values and characteristics. I hope these will encourage you to visit Thailang soon.

จากหนังสือ “เทศกาล งานประเพณีท้องถิ่น” ระดับมัธยมศึกษา กรมวิชาการ กระทรวงศึกษาธิการ

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