Royal Ploughing Ceremony in Bangkok – Preparing for the New Planting Season

An annual event steeped in history and tradition, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony in Bangkok took place on the 13th of May this year. The ceremony which features many elements was held at the well known Royal Grounds known as Sanam Luang. Visitors planning to learn more about the city’s rich heritage have the chance to embark on a cruise in Bangkok offered by Anantara Cruises Thailand which provides an ideal way to see the capital’s ancient temples. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony, which is always presided over by a member of the royal family, begun with a rite performed by the ‘Lord of the Harvest’ in order to predict the coming seasons’ rainfall. As part of the ceremony, Brahman priests lead a procession while sprinkling sacred water. The highlight and most captivating element of the spectacle is when two sacred oxen are used to plough the field as part of the ritual.