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| Culture Class: Holidays in Thailand, Lesson 4 – Father's Day |
| Hello, and welcome to the Culture Class- Holidays in Thailand Series at ThaiPod101.com. In this series, we’re exploring the traditions behind Thai holidays and observances. I’m Eric, and you're listening to Season 1, Lesson 4, Father's Day. In Thai, it’s called วันพ่อ (wan phâaw). |
| In this lesson, we're going to discuss another holiday, Father’s Day, which falls on December 5 every year. This day is also the birthday of His Majesty the King, the current king of Thailand. It’s a great opportunity to honor him as a role model for fathers in Thailand. |
| You must be interested by now. If you're ready, let’s listen. |
| Now, before we get into more detail, do you know the answer to this question- |
| Which monarch is the current king of Thailand? |
| If you don't already know, you’ll find out a bit later. Keep listening. |
| Every year, when it gets close to Father’s Day, many places, including government buildings, schools, companies, or residential houses, will put up the national flag or ธง (thong). This is to bless His Majesty the King with longevity. People will also clean the rivers, roads, and hospitals as well as place a portrait of His Majesty the King in front of companies and workplaces to indicate that these charitable activities are contributions to the King. |
| On Father’s Day, there are many activities held to honor His Majesty the King. Government agencies and private organizations are united to set up events to honor the King. There are food offerings to monks in the morning and exhibitions of the King’s important royal duties. At night, a ceremonial candle lighting event is held to offer blessings for the King’s longevity in the important areas of every province. In Bangkok, the prime minister or นายกรัฐมนตรี (naa-yók rát-thà-mon-dtrii) will lead a procession of government officials to light candles blessing the King. And of course, there will also be a great celebration with fireworks - พลุ (plú). |
| As for other activities on Father’s Day, in each family there are different ways to express gratitude to one’s father. Some children bring their fathers to temples; some go out to have a meal or travel together. Many schools arrange Father’s Day activities such as Father’s Day poem competitions. In addition, an award is given to one outstanding father who has served society and been a well-respected role model. |
| The symbol of Father’s Day is the canna flower or ดอกพุทธรักษา (dàawk phút-thá-rák-săa). The meaning of its name in Thai is “Buddha protects and blesses you with peace”. This is a sign that represents the King who has reigned over the country and always protected it and kept it peaceful. Also, this flower is yellow, which is the color for Monday, the day on which His Majesty the King was born. |
| Now it's time to answer our quiz question- |
| Which monarch is the current king of Thailand? |
| His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej is the 9th King of Thailand. His reign started when he was 18 years old, due to the sudden death of King Rama VIII. He will be 88 years old this year. |
| So listeners, how did you like this lesson? Did you learn anything interesting? |
| Do you have a similar national day in your country? |
| Leave us a comment telling us at ThaiPod101.com! |
| And I’ll see you in the next lesson! |
| Correction Note: |
| Vajiralongkorn (or Rama X) has been the 10th King of Thailand since October 13, 2016. |
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