Massive crowds sing royal tribute to late Thai king

AFP, BANGKOK: Tens of thousands of black-clad Thais gathered outside Bangkok’s Grand Palace on Saturday to sing the royal anthem in a striking display of devotion to the recently deceased King Bhumibol Adulyadej.The monarch, who died on October 13 following years of poor health, was seen as a guiding light and rare source of unity in a kingdom dogged by corruption and political rivalries.
His death has plunged the nation into grief, with the government declaring a one-year mourning period and urging the public to don black and dial down all festivities for at least 30 days.
Crowds have been massing outside his glittering Bangkok palace for the past week, with many journeying from far away provinces to pay respects to a man celebrated as the father of the nation.
Some have pitched tents on a large grassy field outside the royal compound, while others have been sleeping under the stars on simple bamboo mats.
On Saturday, a sea of black filled the field and surrounding roads to stand and sing a royal anthem alongside a 100-piece orchestra and professional choir.

 

Massive crowds sing royal tribute to late Thai king

AFP, BANGKOK: Tens of thousands of black-clad Thais gathered outside Bangkoks Grand Palace on Saturday to sing the royal anthem in a striking display of devotion to the recently deceased King Bhumibol Adulyadej.The monarch, who died on October 13 following years of poor health, was seen as a guiding light and rare source of unity in a kingdom dogged by corruption and political rivalries. His death has plunged the nation into grief, with the government declaring a one-year mourning period and urging the public to don black and dial down all festivities for at least 30 days. Crowds have been massing outside his glittering Bangkok palace for the past week, with many journeying from far away provinces to pay respects to a man celebrated as the father of the nation. Some have pitched tents on a large grassy field outside the royal compound, while others have been sleeping under the stars on simple bamboo mats. On Saturday, a sea of black filled the field and surrounding roads to stand and sing a royal anthem alongside a 100-piece orchestra and professional choir.