Royal Barge Procession 2012
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Please let me share my first experience watching one of the most wonderful royal ceremonies of Thailand – the “Royal Krathin Ceremony” or “ Royal Barge Procession.” It is a ceremony of both religious and royal significance which has taken place for nearly 700 years. It is also the 16th occurrence during King Bhumiphol Adulyadej (Rama IX)’s reign.
You may be wondering what Krathin is? It’s a Buddhist festival which comes at the end of Buddhist Lent (the three-month rainy season retreat for Theravada Buddhists), and it involves honoring the monks over a month long period by presenting them with Krathin robes (a monk’s robe). It also earns the earns merit to the bearers of the gifts by showing their support.
I popped into the restaurant by Chao Phraya River opposite the landmark temple Wat Arun to observe this event. This year His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn presided the Royal Barge on behalf of His majesty the King, proceeding to Wat Arun to give merit. These barges are manned by 2,082 oarsmen. The Procession navigates down the Chao Phraya River, from the Wasukri Royal Landing Place, taking in the historical sites of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Grand Palace and Wat Po, ending at Wat Arun.
I was delighted when the procession stopped within my view. The craftsman paddled the calm water to steady the barges, while the leader sang a poem right in front of us. This was an absolutely magical sight. I am so proud that Thailand has such a rich culture and a tradition of doing this for 700 years. I am proud to be a part of Thailand and its history in the making.
