Bangkok: A Buddhist prayer ceremony was held to commemorate the 100th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Rambhai Barni, Queen Consort of King Rama VII. His Holiness Somdej Phra Maha Veerawong, a member of the Supreme Sangha Council and Secretary to the Supreme Patriarch, presided over the religious ceremony, while Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri presided over the lay ceremony at Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Mahasimararam.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony celebrated the achievements of Queen Rambhai Barni. His Holiness Somdej Phra Maha Veerawong lit incense and candles before the Buddha image. The Deputy Prime Minister offered incense and candles before the portrait of His Majesty the King and lit the ceremonial offering before the portrait of Queen Rambhai Barni. Tributes were then offered to His Holiness Somdej Phra Maha Veerawong.
The officiating officer invited the monks to observe the precepts, which were followed by the chanting of protective verses and Buddhist scriptures. Traditional Thai offerings were presented to Somdej Phra Maha Wirawong by the Deputy Prime Minister, and the Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office, along with other executives, offered traditional Thai offerings to 10 monks. The Deputy Prime Minister also offered 10 sets of monastic robes. The ceremony concluded with prayers and blessings by the monks, and the Deputy Prime Minister performed a symbolic act of merit dedication.
Her Majesty Queen Rambhai Barni, born on December 20, 1904, at Pathumwan Palace, was the daughter of His Royal Highness Prince Swasdiwatnavisith and Her Royal Highness Princess Aphaphannee. She married King Prajadhipok in 1920 and became Queen when King Prajadhipok ascended the throne in 1925. Queen Rambhai Barni passed away on May 22, 1984, at the age of 79. Her legacy in education, sustainable social development, and gender equality continues to be recognized and celebrated.