Areas of Bangkok have been turned into a mass of yellow as thousands of Thai people have lined the streets to catch a glimpse of King Bhumibol on his 80th birthday. Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Sanam Luang and the vicinity of the Grand Palace have drawn huge crowds as Thais celebrate the occasion with the man who is seen as the father of the nation (so much so, that the date also marks father’s day in Thailand). Yellow is the colour associated with the king’s birth date (a Monday) and is the reason why so many Thais have worn that colour today.
There is no doubt that many people in Thailand continue to be concerned about the king’s health, but today is a day for the country to enjoy. Today’s public holiday has seen families gather together, make merit and wish the monarch good health for the future.
(photo from APF via BBC News)
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