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H.M. King Bhumiphol Adulyadej, also known as King Rama IX, celebrated 50
years as the reigning monarch of Thailand in 1996, cementing his
position as the world's longest reigning monarch King Bhumipol, a jazz
composer and saxophonist, ascended to the throne in 1946 after the
mysterious shooting death of his older brother, who had reigned as king
for only year. |
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Thai resere their monarch and show a degree of respect for the royal
family that can be found in few other countries. Photographs of the
royal family -- the king, his wife, Queen Sirikit, and his four children
-- are found in almost every household. The king's only son, Crown
Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, was named heir-apparent when he turned 20 in
1972.
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Criticism of the monarch and any other member of the royal family
is a social as well as legal taboo, and anymore who violates it may fine
themselves facing charges of lese majieste.
Costitutionally, the king is the supreme head of state, the head of
region and the head of the armed forces. While the end of the absolute
power of the monarchy in 1932 may have reduced the direct power of the
king. It has not lessened his influence.
Revered above all as a man of the people, party in dependence to
tradition and partly because of his impressive public works record, the
king has traveled to every corner of Thailand to meet his subjects.
During the bloody riots of May 1992. It was the king who called in the
leaders of the opposing political factions to reconcile their difference
to defuse a potentially explosive situation.
If you should happen to go to a cinema while visiting the country, be
aware that you must stand to show respect for H.M. the King during the
National Anthem, which is played before every screening.
