Anutin led the Cabinet to open the exhibition celebrating the Supreme Patriarch’s 99th birthday, honoring the royal devotion legacy of 13 zodiac cycles at Wat Ratchabophit, dedicating merit to Princess Bajrakitiyabha.
On 19 June 2026 at Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Mahasimaram, Fueang Nakhon Road, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, accompanied by his wife, presided over the opening ceremony of the exhibition “13 Zodiac Cycles of Wat Ratchabophit: The Royal Devotion Heritage” on the occasion of the Supreme Patriarch’s 99th birthday on 26 June 2026. The Cabinet and their spouses attended the ceremony in full.
Lalida Pertwivuttana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, reported that before the ceremony began, the Prime Minister and his wife paid respects at the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Statue. They then proceeded to the ordination hall to pay homage to the Buddha image Phra Phuttha Angkhiros and to pay respects to the Supreme Patriarch together with the Cabinet. Afterwards, the Prime Minister paid respects before the portrait of the Supreme Patriarch and lit incense, candles, and small offerings before the portrait of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Nareehtira Thepyawadi, Princess Royal, before officially opening the event.
The Prime Minister expressed his great pleasure to preside over this auspicious event, marking an important occasion for Thai Buddhists to collectively offer their respect and gratitude for the benevolence of the head of the Thai Sangha. The Supreme Patriarch exemplifies monastic virtues and has dedicated himself to the stability of Buddhism. He has been a spiritual pillar for the people through his compassion, wisdom, and diligent religious service, which has brought peace and happiness to the population.
He emphasized the importance of Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Mahasimaram Rajaworawihan as a heritage of royal devotion established by King Chulalongkorn, reflecting the close bond between the monarchy and Buddhism. This exhibition provides a valuable opportunity for the public to study the history and cultural heritage of the nation.
Additionally, the exhibition is held to honor the benevolence and dedicate merit to Princess Bajrakitiyabha Nareehtira Thepyawadi, Princess Royal, who has contributed significantly to the country in law, social development, and the support of Buddhism.
“I believe this exhibition will raise public awareness of the value of Buddhism, history, and cultural heritage. It will also inspire everyone to adopt virtues, sacrifice, and public service in their lives to collectively build a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Thai society,” the Prime Minister emphasized.
After the opening ceremony, the Prime Minister and his wife toured the exhibition, visited shops selling products from the 'Kamlung Jai' royal initiative, and observed demonstrations of traditional Thai craftsmanship before departing upon completion of their duties.