Bangkok: The Royal Thai Navy conducted a ceremonial offering in preparation for the royal barge procession. Admiral Pairoj Fuengchan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, led the ceremony, which included paying homage to the guardian spirits of the land, Buddhist rites, and offerings to the guardian spirits of the royal barges. This ritual preceded the launching of four royal barges into the water, marking the beginning of preparations for the Royal Barge Procession, associated with the Kathina robe presentation ceremony in 2026, celebrating the auspicious 4th cycle birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on June 3, 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony took place at the National Museum of Royal Barges at 8:15 AM, where Admiral Fuengchan paid homage to the guardian spirits of four royal barges, including the Suphannahong and Anantanagaraj Royal Barges, among others. The ceremony involved incantations, Buddhist blessings, and various symbolic acts like anointing the ships and performing a ceremonial dance by the Fine Arts Department.
The Royal Thai Navy, in collaboration with the Royal Household and the Fine Arts Department, has obtained royal permission to oversee the maintenance and repair of the royal barges. This includes oar training and preparation for the 2026 procession. The Thonburi Naval Dockyard has completed the repair work, applying traditional techniques to ensure the integrity and longevity of the barges. Decorated by the Fine Arts Department's Ten Craftsmen Division, the barges are now ready for the next phase of training.
The training involves 58 royal barge captains and 104 helmsmen, who will instruct the oarsmen. The training is currently in the rowing stage, with plans to progress to river formation practice. A significant element of the procession is the "Royal Barge Chant," composed by Rear Admiral Thongyoi Saengsinchai, a noted Thai language expert.
The procession will feature 52 royal barges, manned by 2,200 officers from various Royal Thai Navy units. The central procession will include notable barges such as the Suphannahong and Narai Song Suban. The rehearsals, both minor and major, are scheduled from August to October 2026, with public participation encouraged along the Chao Phraya River.
Admiral Fuengchan expressed confidence in the readiness of all components, despite the inclusion of new oarsmen due to soldier discharges. The recruitment attracted a high number of volunteers, reflecting strong loyalty and commitment, with training adjustments anticipated for the transition from platform to water practice. Rehearsal schedules might adjust for weather and river conditions, but the overall arrangement remains on track.