Cultural festival to celebrate 235 years of the rattanakosin period
The Ministry of Culture is joining hands with various agencies in organizing a cultural festival, with a variety of activities, in commemoration of the 235th anniversary of the Rattanakosin, or Bangkok, period.
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Culture Minister Vira Rojpojchanarat said that the cultural festival, to be held from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., between 1 and 30 April 2017, is meant to recall the gracious kindness of King Rama I, who established Bangkok as the capital of Thailand.
It is also intended to honor all Chakri kings, as they have brought stability and prosperity to the country throughout the period. This festival will provide the people with the opportunity to learn more about the history of Rattanakosin.
It will be officially opened on 5 April at the National Theater, near Sanam Luang ceremonial ground.
From 5 to 30 April, there will be an exhibition on His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej at the Bangkok National Museum.
A night museum will also be arranged from 20 to 25 April at the National Theater.
On 20 April, a ceremony in dedication to the past kings will take place at the Bangkok National Museum, while a ceremony to pay homage to the City Pillar will be held at the Bangkok City Pillar Shrine.
A total of 236 monks will receive alms in front of the City Hall on 21 April. Later, on 22 April, religious ceremonies of five faiths will take place at the National Theater.
From 20 to 25 April, cultural performances from the four regions of Thailand will be held at the National Theater. The College of Dramatic Arts will stage cultural shows at Santi Chai Prakan Public Park, as well.
The second ASEAN Cultural Festival will also be held, with puppet shows, at the National Theater, the Maha Chetsadabodin Pavilion Plaza, and Santi Chai Prakan Public Park. Members of the diplomatic corps from ASEAN will be invited to join this event.
A photo contest on the 235 years of Rattanakosin will be held between 2 and 30 April at Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center. Cultural products from all provinces will be sold around the Rattanakosin Island.
A Thai Heritage Preservation Week will be held from 2 to 8 April at the National Theater, followed by the Songkran Festival, from 13 to 17 April at the area in front of the City Hall, Siam Paragon, Siam Square, and Wat Pathumwanaram.
The history of Rattanakosin dates back to the year 1782, when King Rama I established Bangkok as the capital. He was also the founder of the Royal House of Chakri. Bangkok abounds in cultural and historical sites reflecting the country’s long history and unique culture.
