Anniversary Of The Death Of King Bhumibol
In Thailand, King Bhumibol was and remains a revered monarch. He reigned over Thailand from June 1946 until his passing on October 13, 2016, making him the longest-reigning monarch in the country’s history. During his reign, he played a pivotal role in guiding Thailand through the transition to a fledgling democracy in the 1990s.
Thailand (National holiday)In honor of his significant contributions and enduring legacy, Thailand commemorates the passing of King Bhumibol with a national holiday known as the “Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol.” This observance takes place on October 13th each year, and if the date falls on a weekend, it is observed on the following Monday.
The Historical Journey of King Bhumibol
Bhumibol Adulyadej was born on December 5, 1927, at Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in the United States. He was the youngest son of Prince Mahidol Adulyadej and Princess Srinagarindra. His birth in the United States was due to his father’s enrollment at Harvard University’s public health program.
Notably, Bhumibol remains the only monarch to have been born in the U.S. In 1928, he returned to Thailand, and in 1929, his father passed away from kidney failure. In 1935, his 9-year-old brother, Ananda Mahidol, ascended to the throne as King Rama VIII following their uncle Prajadhipok’s abdication.
In 1946, after the tragic death of his brother from a gunshot wound, Bhumibol ascended to the throne, serving until his passing on October 13, 2016, establishing a record as the longest-serving king in Thailand’s history.
Observing the Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol
On the 13th of October, at precisely 3:52 pm, a nationwide moment of silence is observed. Following this solemn moment, it is customary for people to engage in acts of charity and perform good deeds in tribute to the late king. Additionally, wearing yellow is a traditional practice on this day. As a public national holiday, government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed to mark this significant occasion.
Thailand (National holiday)
