PUBLISHED: 22 Jun 2024 at 04: 30
According to the Culture Ministry, the recovery of 52 royal boats will be finished on time for a imperial kathin service on October 28 as part of ceremonies to commemorate the King’s 72nd holiday on July 28.
Just minor details are required, according to Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, who announced on Friday that the work must be finished by the end of the month.
A royal barge procession and kathin ceremony will be held on October 27th under the direction of the Fine Arts Department ( FAD ).
The second meeting to take place during His Majesty the King’s era will be the ship march. Their Majesties, the King and Queen, may go to Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan for the robe- providing service.
A total of 52 imperial barges may have in the procession, creating a 1, 200- metre- extended and 90- metre- large formation along the Chao Phraya River. About 2, 200 oars may become needed.
She claimed that the Office of Traditional Arts and the Conservation Science Division of the National Museum of Art are in charge of the repair of the aristocratic boats.
The government has allocated a main resources of 47.3 million baht to the job on the 52 imperial boats. According to Ms. Sudawan, the FAD is working to save the royal barges to maintain safety and flexibility and to uphold the history of the boat procession, which is the highlight of this internationally special ceremony.
” The restoration work is almost 100 % done. The process will be finished within June 30″, added the minister.
The move is also a response to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s wish to see this royal ceremony, which is eagerly awaited by both Thai and international visitors, showcase Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
After the procession is over, the Culture Ministry will work with the Tourism and Sports Ministry to promote the beauty of the royal barges.
The National Museum of Royal Barges in Bangkok’s Bangkok Noi district has eight royal barges: the Suphannahong, Narayana Song Suban, Anantanagaraj, Anekajatbhujonga and four escort barges, including Ekachai Hoen Hao, Asura Wayu Phak, Khrut Hoen Het and Krabi Prap Muang Man.
She added that the FAD will promote the royal procession, provide details about each barge on its virtual museum, and expand its opening hours from 4pm to 8pm in December to encourage tourists ‘ soft power policies.
His Majesty the King, in accordance with the Royal Thai Navy, has authorized an outdoor exhibition and oarsmen’s shows twice a day at Ratchaworadit Pier on July 28 and 29.
According to Capt Songchai Jitwang, Chief of Staff of the Administrative Department of the Royal Thai Navy, there will also be an exhibition in honor of His Majesty the King.
Prior to the royal kathin ceremony, there will also be a rehearsal of the royal barge procession.