The present Thai king is his Majesty, “ Bhumibol Adulyadej” ( Thai : ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช). He is also known as Rama IX. His majesty is the world’s longest serving monarch in history. His majesty is greatly loved by his people. Throughout his reign, he uses his wealth to support numerous development projects in rural areas.
Early Life :
His majesty was born in Mount Auburn Hospital in Massachusetts. He is the youngest son of Prince Mahidol Adulyadej. His majesty was brought back to Thailand in 1982. In 1933, his majesty left Thailand to study in Switzerland with his family. King Bhumibol ascended to the throne after the death of his brother, Ananda Mahidol.
While his highness is finishing his degree in Switzerland, he first met daughter of the Thai ambassador to France, Mom Rajawonse Sirikit. He became a regular visitor to the ambassador’s residence since. On October 4, 1948, his highness was in a a car accident, and he was hospitalized. While he was hurt, Sirikit visited him frequently. Soon they are married.
Royal Projects :
King Bhumibol has started many economic and social development projects in Thailand. In the early years of his reign, military dictator, Plaek Pibulsonggram, suppressed the monarch power. Nevertheless, King Bhumibol used his own personal funds to initiate a few development projects such as Royal Film and Radio Broadcasting.
During 1958-1980, King Bhumibol was reportrayed as the “Development King”. The government started to support Royally-initiated projects. Afterwards The relationship between the king and his people became closest. |
