Blessing rites ahead of HM's birthday

“She is an exemplary Buddhist,” Somdej Phra Maha Ratchamangkalajarn said yesterday in his capacity as member of the Supreme Sangha Council. The senior monk, who is also the abbot of Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, was one of the monks presiding over a blessing rite for Her Majesty yesterday. Several senior monks, including the abbot of Wat Saket, attended the rite, which was conducted in line with the Lanna tradition.

Somdej Phra Maha Ratchamangkalajarn said that though Her Majesty was considered the mother of the nation and had the highest status among women, she was very humble. 

“She has made huge contributions to Buddhism. She set up a fund to help ailing monks at Siriraj Hospital and also makes monthly donations to the Monk’s Hospital,” he said, adding that Her Majesty also gave alms every Monday and Friday at the Dusit Palace. 

The senior monk said a praying ritual for Her Majesty would be held at the Emerald Buddha Temple today, while similar rites will be held across the country on Monday. 

Wat Saket’s assistant abbot Phra Wijitthammaporn said a new song, “Mae Ja”, composed in honour of the Queen, could be downloaded at www.jariyatam.com. 

Meanwhile, Culture Ministry permanent secretary Somchai Sianglai said the National Culture Commission had honoured Her Majesty with the title “Akarapiraksa Sinlapin” (Great Artist who Conserves the Arts), adding that another song was composed in her honour by national artists including Naowarat Pongpaiboon and Chalee Intarawijit. This song can be downloaded on www.m-culture.go.th.