Pathum thani: The Department of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Culture jointly organized a significant event to honor Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, on the occasion of her birthday, celebrated annually on August 12th. This gathering aimed to offer royal merit and continue Her Majesty’s aspirations in religion, inviting Thai citizens to express their loyalty and gratitude for her contributions.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture, held a Buddhist chanting ceremony at Wat Bot (Luang Pu Thian) in Pathum Thani Province. The event was presided over by Phra Rajmaha Chetiyaphiban, Abbot of Wat Bot, with Mr. Prasop Riangngen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, serving as the lay chairman. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Chaipol Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, Mr. Somkid Chanthamrik, Governor of Pathum Thani Province, executives from the Ministry of Culture, and a broad spectrum of civil servants, officials, and the public.
Mr. Prasop Riangngen highlighted the significance of Her Majesty’s birthday as an opportunity for all Thai citizens to demonstrate their loyalty to the monarchy. Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, has been celebrated for her numerous royal duties, including her tireless work in remote areas and her support of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s various development initiatives. Her Majesty has emphasized the importance of spiritual progress alongside material advancement, a sentiment she expressed in a royal address to nursing students in 1967.
The Department of Religious Affairs organized various activities to honor Her Majesty, including Buddhist chanting ceremonies and volunteer efforts for public service. These activities featured precept recitations, chanting in the Mon style, demonstrations of local wisdom, and environmental initiatives such as cleaning temple grounds and planting trees. Across Thailand, regional offices collaborated with provincial cultural offices to tailor activities honoring Her Majesty, from exhibitions to religious ceremonies, fostering loyalty to the monarchy.
The public has been encouraged to learn about Her Majesty’s royal duties and addresses, and to adopt the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in daily life. Individuals are urged to uphold morality, preserve cultural traditions, and contribute to national development. The Bureau of the Royal Household also invites the public to sign a well-wishes book for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, online from August 9-15, 2025, marking her 93rd birthday.