THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
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Supermoon vigil marks one month mourning in Thailand

Supermoon vigil marks one month mourning in Thailand

Thailand is to hold vigils Monday night to honour the late king Bhumibol Adulyadej in conjunction with the one month anniversary of his death and the Supermoon phenomenon.

Thousands of Thais are expected to come out Monday night to hold candles in honour of their beloved monarch who died on October 13 and to witness the biggest full moon since 1948.
The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT)confirmed with dpa that it is holding candlelight vigils and Supermoon viewing in Chiang Mai, Nakorn Ratchasima and Chachoengsao provinces, with telescopes provided.
Other parts of Thailand will also hold vigils for King Bhumibol.
"The Supermoon full moon marks an auspicious event. It represents a bright new beginning that comes one day after the one-month mourning period," a NARIT representative told dpa.
The vigils are expected to last 15 minutes, NARIT said.
A large number of Thais are expected to flock to public parks and popular riverside spots Monday night, as the country also celebrates the annual Loi Krathong festival.
Each November, Thais nationwide float lotus-shaped banana leaves on rivers and lakes in a tradition meant to pay respects to the river goddess and apologise for water pollution.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha has banned celebrations and entertainment activities for one month to mourn the king's death.
Fireworks and loud music are banned for this year's Loi Krathong festival.
Security has also been beefed up in preparation for various gatherings Monday night with greater police presence at popular spots nationwide, police said.
 

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