King Bhumibol Adulyadej's celebrates 60 years

May 6, 2010, 12:02 GMT

Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej was moved from Siriraj hospital to the country's Grand Palace for the 60th anniversary of his crowning yesterday (05.05.10).

Thousands lined the streets crying and cheering as the 82-year-old royal - the longest reigning living monarch - and Queen Sirikit Kitiyakara were taken by motorcade to a huge celebration, including parades and fireworks at the palace.

As Bhumibol was welcomed with shouts of "long live the king" as she passed the city's Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which prompted him to wave in response and in turn caused the public to cheer even louder.

King Bhumibol has been held in hospital for a number of months for complications related to ill health and his appearances yesterday was the first time he had been seen in public for months.

The royal family spent part of the day performing a merit-making ceremony for 20 monks and, in Brahmin tradition, paid homage to gods guarding the noppadol savetachat, a white nine-tiered umbrella of state which is part of the royal regalia.

The government and citizens last night launched a grand ceremony to celebrate Coronation Day, which will last until Sunday (09.05.10).

As part of the events there is an exhibition of the king's projects and a replica of the royal barge, named Suphannahongse.