Bangkok celebrates the founding of Rattanakosin Kingdom
Folk games, one of the activities in Bangkok. – ANN Photo
The Culture Ministry is collaborating with the Crown Property Bureau, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Culture Council Association to organise a celebration from April 20-22 of the 231 years of the Rattanakosin Kingdom and the City Pillar Shrine.
The event will provide visitors with information about the Rattanakosin Kingdom since it was established in 1782 and will include several activities at important sites in the area.
The Fine Arts Department will organise a demonstration of the Kingdom’s 10 traditional crafts in the grounds outside the Thammasat University as well as at the Phra Nakhon National Museum, which is hosting the exhibitions “Mahanakorn Amorn Rattanakosin 2325 to Present” and “Rattanakosin Celebration Flag”. Other activities include the Thai Fabric Caravan, demonstrations of traditional Thai massage, a traditional market and the preparation and sale of traditional food and desserts. Enthusiasts will also be given access to recipes.
At the Sangkeet Sala outside the Phutthaisawan Museum, a khon performance will be held on all three days from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
Visitors will also be given access to the Thawon Watthu Building, built during the reign of King Rama V; the Hall of Sculpture; Silpa Bhirasri Hall of Frames; and Damrong Rajanuphap in the Fine Arts Department’s compound. Temples surrounding Rattanakosin Island will also be open to visitors. Sightseeing tours will be offered along the Sanam Chai, Rajini, Phra Athit and Na Phra That roads in Rattanakosin Island along with a magnificent parade of Thai culture.
Outdoor movies will be screened every night at Santi Chaiprakarn Park and the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, while Siam Museum will waive entrance fees.
A Lak Muang Shrine Religious Ceremony will be held on April 21 at 7am. The ceremony will involve a procession of more than 400 people, including representatives of five religions, war veterans and members of communities in the 50 Bangkok districts, from Phra Nakhon National Museum, past Thammasat University, the Fine Arts Department and the Grand Palace before stopping at Lak Muang Shrine.
The events will run from 9am to 9pm from April 20 to 22 and a Rattanakosin Island Tour will be available thrice a day. Further information is available via the 1765 hotline or on www.m-culture.go.th.