Celebrating the King’s 80th birthday

On Sunday, the streets of Bangkok were lined with loyal supporters of Thailand’s King, dressed in yellow shirts to celebrate His Majesty’s 80th birthday. Sunday’s parade was one element of a series of events which will take place over the next week in order to celebrate the birthday of King Bhumipol Adulyadej.

The dress parade took place at the Royal Plaza in downtown Bangkok. Sunday’s parade included displays of traditional Thai culture. ‘Elephant knights’ paraded down the streets showing onlookers what war elephants of ancient times looked like. The procession was led by a rare sight indeed, an auspicious white elephant.

Royal Guards also marched in the parade, wearing ceremonial uniforms and under the lead of the Thai Royal Armed Forces Supreme Commander as well as other officials from the Army, Navy and Air forces. The forces all swore their loyalty to the King.

Queen Sirikit marched with the parade as it went to be inspected by the monarch himself. King Bhumibol is the world’s longest reining monarch, having served in the position for the last 61 years. He will celebrate his birthday on December 5th.