Thais eagerly await auspicious day

Thai citizens began pouring into Bangkok’s Royal Plaza today, filled with enthused anticipation and curiosity, waiting for a glimpse of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej who makes a public appearance at the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall on his 85th birthday tomorrow. People are to wear yellow shirts, the colour of Monday—for the King’s birthday, to the mass gathering expected to occupy the historic square in front of the throne hall all the way through Rajdamnern Avenue. Well-wishers have come from every part of Thailand. Some have arrived from abroad, having come to see the monarch on this special occasion. Pongrat Manapanya, 53, arrived Bangkok from the Netherlands three days ago and has been staying on the street near the Ananta Samakhom throne hall overnight. “Let me be a tiny yellow dot in the history of Thailand,” he said. Piyanart Boonchalerm erected a tent at the Royal Plaza as her temporary shelter last night. “To have an audience with His Majesty is more fortunate than winning a first prize lottery,” said the 34-year-old Bangkokian.