Crowds Gather for Royal Barge Display despite Rain

Bangkok, July 30 (TNA) – A large crowd on Monday gathered at Ratchaworadit pier to witness the royal barge on public display with recitals in honor of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday.

Although the first round of the royal barge display was scheduled to begin at 5 p.m., the oarsmen of the three royal barges – Suphannahong, Narai Song Suban HM King Rama IX, and Anantanakkharat – began preparing as early as 1 p.m. Some of the rowers conducted additional practice sessions to ensure the highest level of perfection after watching the recording of Saturday’s rehearsal.

At around 2 p.m., the rowers of each barge began paying respects to the spirit of the boat before moving the vessels according to tradition, seeking blessings and good fortune.

Then, at 4 p.m., the three royal barges were moved from the Thonburi dock to the mooring point in front of Ratchaworadit pier.

Meanwhile, since the afternoon, the public had been arriving at Ratchaworadit pier to capture the memorable moment of the royal barge display and recitals. However, at 5 p.m., heavy rain poured down. Despite the downpour, the rowers on the three royal barges, dressed in their beautiful uniforms, remained poised, calm, and dignified, impressing the public.

When the rain finally subsided, slightly later than the scheduled, the round of the display began. Although it rained again at some points, the show went on.

Not only were the rowers of the three royal barges dedicated to their duty, but a number of members of the public also remained on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, holding umbrellas in the rain to admire the beautiful sight.

Many people stated that even though they were drenched, they were willing to get wet to witness the magnificent spectacle of the decorated royal barges, the garlands, the thrones, and the golden curtains, with the rowers dressed in in full ceremonial attire and holding golden oars.

This is a rare sight that only occurs on special occasions, and this year, it is to celebrate His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday on July 28. -819 (TNA)