Koh Samui honored the 50-day “Pannyasamavara” ceremony for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, on December 12, 2025. Officials and locals gathered to pay their respects through sermons and rituals, echoing the community’s enduring devotion with “Samui, Forever Loyal.”
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Commemorative Ceremony Overview
On December 12, 2025, a significant merit-making ceremony, known as “Pannyasamavara,” was held at 5:00 PM in Koh Samui District. This ceremony marked the 50th day since the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, reflecting an important tradition within Thai Buddhist culture for honoring the deceased.
Distinguished Guests and Leadership
The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Amorn Chumchuay, District Chief of Koh Samui, and gathered a wide array of attendees, including representatives from government agencies, state enterprises, private sector organizations, and a large turnout of local residents. The Koh Samui City Municipality was represented by Deputy Mayor Amnat Chotchuang, who led the municipal personnel in demonstrating both respect and gratitude for the Queen Mother’s legacy.
Program and Ritual Proceedings
The event’s agenda encompassed several traditional elements central to Thai Buddhist commemorations:
- Dharma Sermon: The Chief Monk of Koh Samui District and Abbot of Kunaram Temple, Phra Kru Sirithipakunakon, delivered a Dharma sermon intended to provide guidance, comfort, and reflection on the virtues of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.
- Monastic Chanting: A group of ten senior monks performed ceremonial chanting, believed to generate spiritual merit and bless the gathering.
- Presentation of Robes: Attendees participated in offering robes to the monks, a common and esteemed act in Buddhist merit-making ceremonies.
- Funeral Sermon: Enveloping the spiritual atmosphere, monks listened to a funeral sermon reciting the goodness and benevolent deeds of the Queen Mother.
- Donation and Requisite Offerings: Donations and daily necessities were presented to the monks as an act of merit.
- Water Pouring Ceremony: Symbolic pouring of ceremonial water was conducted, a ritual symbolizing the transfer of merit to the departed.
- Receiving Blessings: The event concluded with participants receiving blessings from the monks, imparting good fortune and spiritual well-being.
Cultural and Social Significance
Such ceremonies are deeply rooted in Thai culture, serving multiple purposes: commemorating the deceased, strengthening community ties, preserving traditional rituals, and reinforcing loyalty to the monarchy. Her Majesty Queen Sirikit is remembered nationwide, and ceremonies like “Pannyasamavara” encapsulate the enduring reverence felt by the Thai people.
Expressions of Loyalty
Throughout the event, expressions of enduring loyalty and affection towards the monarchy were evident. The phrase “Samui, Forever Loyal” was echoed, affirming the local community’s loyalty and respect for the royal family, particularly for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit whose humanitarian efforts and dedication are fondly recalled across generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ: 50th Day Merit-Making Ceremony Honoring Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother
What was the significance of the 50th day “Pannyasamavara” ceremony held in Koh Samui?
The ceremony marked the 50th day since the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, following an important Thai Buddhist tradition. This observance, called “Pannyasamavara,” serves to honor and transfer merit to the deceased, reflecting deep respect and commemoration from the community.
What traditional rituals and activities were included in the merit-making ceremony?
Key elements included a Dharma sermon reflecting the Queen Mother’s virtues, monastic chanting by senior monks, the offering of robes and donations to monks, a funeral sermon, the symbolic water pouring ceremony to transfer merit, and blessings received by attendees. These acts are integral to Thai Buddhist ceremonies, aiming to honor the departed and foster spiritual merit.
Why was community participation and the theme “Samui, Forever Loyal” emphasized during the event?
The ceremony brought together local officials, government representatives, and residents to demonstrate unity and enduring loyalty to the monarchy. The phrase “Samui, Forever Loyal” highlighted the community’s heartfelt respect and gratitude for the Queen Mother, reinforcing both cultural traditions and the longstanding bond with the royal family.
