Thailand is gearing up to celebrate the 241st anniversary of Rattanakosin or Bangkok, and the government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the event is a grand success. To mark the occasion, a celebratory event has been planned at various locations across the city, from April 21 to 25.
Minister of Culture Itthiphol Kunplome and culture ministry officials met with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha ahead of a cabinet meeting on April 18 to discuss the upcoming event. They presented Cultural Products of Thailand (CPOT) to the prime minister, which included Thai garments, brass products, woven bags, aromatic oils, and desserts. Traditional performances such as Khon, Nora, and Li-ke dances were also showcased on the occasion.
The prime minister urged all Thais to take pride in their national heritage and contribute towards preserving and promoting cultural values. He emphasized that Thailand has a rich history spanning hundreds of years, and it is important to carry forward its good traditions and promote them to the world. Prayut also urged everyone to instill a sense of Thai identity in children and youth and provide them with the correct knowledge to take pride in their national heritage.
The event celebrating the 241st anniversary of Rattanakosin will take place at 21 locations across Bangkok, including the National Museum and Santi Chai Prakan Park in the Phra Nakon district, as well as Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan in the Thon Buri district. The event venues will have a retro theme and offer visitors a range of arts and cultural performances from all regions of Thailand. In addition, visitors can expect to gain historical knowledge about Rattanakosin and learn about the cultural diversity of Thailand. An exhibition on the biographies of the 10 kings of the Chakri dynasty will also be on display at Santi Chai Prakan Park from April 21 to May 7.
The event promises to be a celebration of Thailand’s vibrant culture and rich heritage, and an opportunity to showcase the country’s soft power to the world.