On 13 January 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy held a ceremony to pay homage to His Majesty the King to commemorate the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King Attaining the Same Age as His Majesty King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great (King Rama I) on 14 January 2025 at Dhammadharo Temple. H.E. Ms. Arjaree Sriratanaban, Ambassador of Thailand to Australia, presided over the ceremony which was attended by Heads and officials of Team Thailand agencies in Australia, together with their spouses and family, and members of the Thai community in Canberra and nearby areas. This was followed by a religious ceremony of merit making and alms offering to monks as well as the special Dharmma Sermon delivered by Phra Dhamma Vajirarangsee, Abbot of Wat Pa Buddharangsee Buddhist Forest Monastery (Leumeah).

 

Traditionally, merit making ceremonies in dedication to past kings have been performed by Chakri kings on various occasions to show gratitude and respect to ancestors for their contributions to the country and the people. Every Thai monarch honours the contributions and legacy of their royal predecessors on significant occasions, such as anniversaries of ascension to the throne or when their age matches that of a significant predecessor for the first time.

 

His Majesty the King reaches 26,469 days of age on 14 January 2025, attaining the same age as King Rama I, the founder of the Royal House of Chakri.