MERIT-MAKING and commemorative ceremonies took place across Thailand yesterday to mark the 100th day after the passing of much-loved HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX). The late monarch passed away at the age of 89 on October 13 last year.

His passing has thrown the country into deep mourning. Thai people have continued to wear black and white to mourn over his departure.

At the time of his passing, King Rama IX was the world’s longest-reigning monarch with his reign spanning over seven decades. Having devoted himself to his people, the former monarch won much love and respect from Thais.

In Rayong, more than 1,000 people gathered early yesterday morning to give alms to 98 monks who got ordained in dedication to the late monarch.

Such merit-making rituals also took place in various other provinces across the country.

In the northeastern province of Si Sa Ket, Surachart Kaewsila led locals in giving alms to monks and observing 89 seconds of silence for King Rama IX.

Ceremonies inside the Grand Palace

“We have come together to make merit in dedication to him and in remembering him,” Uthumphon Phisai district chief Surachart Kaewsila said yesterday.

In Bangkok, royal ceremonies marking the 100th day after the passing of King Rama IX took place inside the Grand Palace.

Because of the ceremonies, members of the public were not able to pay their respects before the body of the late monarch inside the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, in the Grand Palace yesterday, and today.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), therefore, joined hands with other government agencies in staging big cleaning operations around Sanam Luang.

Since the body of the late King was transferred to the throne hall, thousands of people gathered at nearby Sanam Luang every day for an opportunity to go inside the royal compound and pay homage to Rama IX. “We hope to |complete the cleaning operation in two days,” Bangkok Governor Pol General Aswin Kwanmuang said.

During the operation, food tents will also be relocated out of Sanam Luang as relevant parties plan to develop a new way of serving food and water to mourners who queue up for their chance to bid farewell to the late King. Construction of the elaborate Royal crematorium is also due to start in Sanam Luang soon.

Sanam Luang will also host the Royal Ploughing Ceremony in May.

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