Thailand gets its new King!

After 69 years since the last coronation, Thailand has got its new king – the 66-year-old King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Thailand is currently having a three-day national celebration for the coronation of its 10^th king. In Thailand the King is revered as a demigod and the monarchy is full of rituals, protocols and hierarchy which revolve around the king. This three day celebration is worth $31 million. The coronation of the new king is taking place after more than two years of the new king ascending the throne following his father Bhumibol Adulyadej’s death. The previous king Bhumibol Adulyadej was quite famous and was widely loved and respected by the Thai people. Inspite of the fact that Thailand's monarchy did not hold absolute power for the last 86 years, it still continues to be a very influential part of Thailand and the strict laws of the country ‘Lèse-majesté’ make any act related to defaming, insulting or threatening the king illegal. The coronation of the new King started at the grand palace in Bangkok with cannons firing a 21-gun salute and the King's purification with holy water before placing the 7.3 kilogram golden crown on his head. He became a full-fledged King only after being presented with a white, nine-tier umbrella which represents the King's connection with heaven. King Vajiralongkorn is 66 years old and is a father to two daughters and five sons. The king delivered his first royal command by saying, "I shall continue, preserve, and build upon the royal legacy and shall reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the people forever".