12 May 1957

2,500 years of Buddhist era

In the biggest religious observance held in living memory, a week of celebrations and ceremonies got underway to mark the 2,500th anniversary of the Buddhist era. Buddhist organisations from all over the world sent representatives to the opening ceremony at the Pramane Ground (now Sanam Luang).

The King was conspicuously absent, which prompted speculation of a rift between the monarch and Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram. According to an official announcement, the King was ill with a cold.

Plaek had spent years meticulously planning the celebrations. Events included prayer sessions by Buddhist monks, a speech by the prime minister, distribution of specially cast images of Buddha, and the first ceremonial rowing of the royal barges since the ending of Thailand’s absolute monarchy. About 10,000 prisoners, including 145 held for political crimes, were released by royal pardon on May 13.

The King and Queen were scheduled to open the celebrations by lighting incense and candles, and to join the procession of the royal barges on May 14. But neither the King nor Queen appeared at the ceremonies.

12 May 1957

2,500 years of Buddhist era

In the biggest religious observance held in living memory, a week of celebrations and ceremonies got underway to mark the 2,500th anniversary of the Buddhist era. Buddhist organisations from all over the world sent representatives to the opening ceremony at the Pramane Ground (now Sanam Luang).

The King was conspicuously absent, which prompted speculation of a rift between the monarch and Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram. According to an official announcement, the King was ill with a cold.

Plaek had spent years meticulously planning the celebrations. Events included prayer sessions by Buddhist monks, a speech by the prime minister, distribution of specially cast images of Buddha, and the first ceremonial rowing of the royal barges since the ending of Thailand’s absolute monarchy. About 10,000 prisoners, including 145 held for political crimes, were released by royal pardon on May 13.

The King and Queen were scheduled to open the celebrations by lighting incense and candles, and to join the procession of the royal barges on May 14. But neither the King nor Queen appeared at the ceremonies.