Formal celebrations for Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 80th birthday kicked off on Sunday with a pomp-filled military parade.

King Bhumibol, whose birthday is Wednesday, will preside over the annual parade, in which the elite Royal Guards recite an oath of allegiance to the king, an accomplished musician who composed the music they march to. For six decades, he has inspired, entertained and encouraged the Thai people in countless ways. One of these is through music, and his songs, ranging from jazz to classical to patriotic anthems, have been performed in Thailand and internationally by some of the world’s leading musicians and orchestras

His health has recently been a matter of nationwide concern. He checked out of a hospital Nov 7 after three weeks of treatment for a colon infection and what the palace described as inadequate blood flow to his brain. King Bhumibol has suffered several ailments in recent years, including heart problems.

As part of the weeklong celebrations, he is to address the nation on Tuesday night, as he does every year on the eve of his birthday.

Source: Bangkok Post, Straits Times.

Musician playing in the parade celebrating the King by DrBangkok

Bangkok, Thailand.

Also, check out articles in New America Media category: Asia