Remembering Thailand's beloved King Bhumibol

King Bhumibol Adulyadej was highly revered among Thai people during his seven decades on the throne

World's longest-serving monarch worked for unity in a country mired by political turmoil, coups, and military rule.  Long revered by Thais as god-like, the world's longest reigning monarch - His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej - has died at 88.

King Bhumibol, also known as Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty, served 70 years as the constitutional monarch of the Southeast Asian nation.

A King Bhumibol Adulyadej portrait at Siriraj Hospital in 2014

King Bhumibol of Thailand in 1978

He has been praised as a constant force of unification in often tumultuous Thailand, addressing the needs of both urban and rural populations, as well as moderating infighting among the nation's divided political parties.

Tirelessly striving to maintain the monarchy's influence amid a dozen coups, periods of military rule, and the killing of protesters, King Bhumibol's influence on the nation was undeniable.

He's often referred to as the "People's King" and will long be revered by those who bestowed this nickname upon him.


His widespread social projects and development programmes secured him near-deity status, ensuring his legacy will persevere in a country with long-standing traditions of patriotism and loyalty to the royal family.

"The king is my life," artist Kitithat Ekanansiri, 49, told Al Jazeera. "He brought the electricity and developed our village, and I know he treated all of us [Thai people] the same. He is the centre of Thais."

Few monarchs in history have earned the absolute adoration of their subjects to the same extent. His portraits, simultaneously stoic and benevolent, are displayed proudly in living rooms, shops, and public spaces throughout the country.

Sansoen Phra Barami, the royal anthem, is equally prominent, playing in cinemas, on television, and at the opening of every cultural event of note. While such ceremony would likely be seen as an inconvenience in many Western nations, the vast majority of Thais rise to their feet or pause in respect for the king's history of public service.

Every year on December 5, tens of thousands of Thais dressed uniformly in yellow - the colour of the monarchy - flooded the streets and parks surrounding Bangkok's royal palace for Bhumibol's birthday.

The night sky filled with floating fire-lanterns lit by crowds in honour of their "Father the King". As is the case with many monarchs, Thais initially respected King Bhumibol out of an obligation to tradition. But as his contributions to society grew in number and scale, that respect morphed into something more akin to love.

"The king is more than the father of Thai people. When the country was on fire, he was the only person who could put it out," said Pan Buapradit, 59, a retired soldier.