Cremation of HRH Princess Bejaratana occurs today
Thailand is now observing a state of mourning, culminating in the cremation today of Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana, the only child of King Rama VI.
The cremation ceremony started yesterday with mourners wearing black to pay their last respects to Princess Bejeratana, who passed away at the age of 85 last July.
In the evening, HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, on behalf of His Majesty the King, performed a Buddhist meritmaking ceremony dedicated to the late princess at the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall within the Grand Palace.
Also present at the rite were HRH Princess Chulabhorn Valayalaksana and HRH Princess Somsavali.
The Cabinet has declared today as a special holiday.
The royal cremation will be staged in public at Sanam Luang according to longpractised protocol, presenting a rare and precious sight for all visitors.
Free shuttle buses will transport mourners from key spots such as Victory Monument to areas near Sanam Laung today, as traffic will be heavily restricted.
grand ceremony
Besides the grand ceremony at Sanam Laung, mourners can bid a final farewell to the Princess at 46 temples across Bangkok.
The royal proceedings will also be televised live, Public Relations Department chief Thirapong Sodasri said.
All government agencies, state enterprises and educational institutions are flying the national flag at halfmast for the three days of mourning that started yesterday.
Their Majesties the King and Queen are scheduled to attend the royal cremation for Princess Bejaratana at Sanam Luang today.
