Thailand has crowned its first new monarch in nearly seven decades. Ceremonies will go on for three days, which would officially make Maha Vijiralongkorn the new King and a symbolicial living embodiment of God in Thailand.
King Vijiralongkorn, 66, inherited the throne in October 2016, when his father, Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away after a long seventy years of reign. Though Thailand follows constitutional monarchy, the royal family is highly revered by their people and they wield considerable power.
King Vajiralongkorn took part in the Royal Purification and Anointment ceremony at the Grand Palace. The ceremonies contain a blend of Buddhism and Brahmanism. Conch shells and oils were used in this ritual.
Earlier today, King Vajiralongkorn donned a 7 kg gold crown as part of his crowning ceremony. The crown symbolises his royal powers, which includes his right to intervene in government affairs. This was a part of the ceremony where Royal Regalia was presented to the King which includes the crown, sword and other items to the King.
The King delivered his first royal command as King at the Chakrabat Biman Royal Residence, a few hours ago. “I will continue to preserve, develop and rule the land with justice for the benefits of all Thai people," the newly-crowned Thai King declared, according to CNN.
The King has proclaimed himself the Royal Patron of Buddhism at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. He completed the intricate Buddhist and Brahmin rituals which would symbolically transform him into a living God.
There was a period of mourning for the late King before the coronation ceremonies began. The royal ceremonies were happening amidst an unresolved election battle between the current military junta chief and a democratic front trying to push the army out of politics.
