BANGKOK, Thailand – Thousands of people gathered along Bangkok’s historic canals on July 26 for a boat almsgiving ceremony honoring His Majesty the King’s 74th birthday during the “River of Life: Preserving Rattanakosin Heritage under Royal Benevolence” festival. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas presided over the ceremony at Mahakan Fort Park and the Rattanakosin Island Canal. A total of 225 Buddhist monks traveled by boat along the Rattanakosin Island, Saen Saep and Prem Prachakorn canals, with worshippers offering alms from the canal banks. Organizers described it as one of the largest religious events ever held on Rattanakosin Island, drawing participants from Bangkok and across the country.
The ceremony celebrated Thailand’s long-standing ties between its waterways, Buddhism, and the monarchy. The festival also features exhibitions on royal duties and royal projects, along with activities promoting canal restoration, environmental conservation, and community development.
Organizers said the event also showcases improvements to historic canals and nearby communities, including public spaces, environmental restoration, and social welfare services for vulnerable residents. The festival runs through July 31 under royal permission with cultural performances, merit-making ceremonies, and volunteer activities. Organizers also distributed 10,000 bottles of holy water blessed by His Holiness the Supreme Patriarch, senior monks, and clergy from 40 temples connected to the canal network. (NNT)
