Bangkok:Their Majesties the King and Queen participated in the merit-making ceremonies by offering Kathina robes at Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Mahasimararam and Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram as part of the Buddhist Era 2569 celebrations. The ceremonies took place on November 3, 2026, with the royal couple joined by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti, and Chao Khun Phra Sineenath Pilaskalyani.
According to Thai News Agency, the first ceremony was held at Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Mahasimararam, where His Majesty performed the royal merit-making ceremony. His Holiness Somdej Phra Ariyavongsakhatayan, the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, presided over the monastic ceremony. His Majesty offered the Kathina robes and paid homage to the royal ashes of past monarchs and consorts. Her Majesty the Queen also participated in the ceremony, offering Kathina paraphernalia and receiving blessings from the monks.
The second ceremony took place at Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram, commonly known as Wat Pho. His Majesty continued the tradition of offering Kathina robes, with the participation of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, who presented offerings to the monks. The temple, known for its historical significance and architectural features, was established as a royal temple by King Phutthayodfa Chulalok Maharaj and later renamed by King Mongkut (Rama IV).
Both temples received special commemorative items, including gilded metal Buddha images and commemorative coins celebrating the 99th birthday of the Supreme Patriarch. The ceremonies concluded with presentations of Buddha images to the royal family by the respective temple abbots, symbolizing the continuation of this significant religious and cultural tradition.