Manila:Sub-Lieutenant Chalermrat Ting-uam, Director of Wat Rakhang Girls' School, along with the school's administrators and teachers, visited the Royal Thai Navy Dockyard to prepare for the Royal Barge Procession. They measured the height of the figureheads of four royal barges—Suphannahong, Anantanagaraj, Anekchatbhuchong, and Narai Song Suban (of the reign of King Rama IX)—to ensure the garlands being created will fit the decorations perfectly.
According to Thai News Agency, each set of garlands will feature unique "padded garlands" and "tassel tassels," each designed to complement the specific design and name of each barge. This preparation is part of the elaborate decoration process needed for the dignified Royal Barge Procession.
Thailand's rich history with its rivers is reflected in the Royal Barge Procession, a ceremony that showcases the country's traditional crafts such as wood carving, gilding, and floral arrangements. These crafts are interwoven with literary arts through the royal barge procession poems. The barges themselves are more than transport vessels; they are large-scale sculptures embodying mystical beliefs and traditions.
The Suphannahong Royal Barge stands out with its bow carved as a majestic golden swan, while the Anantanagaraj features a seven-headed serpent figurehead that shines with golden light. The Anekchat Phuchong and Narai Song Suban barges exhibit ancient naval architecture that blends religious beliefs with the style of King Rama IX's reign.
The grandeur of the procession is not only due to the beauty of the barges but also the dedication of those behind the scenes. The thousands of naval oarsmen undergo rigorous training to perfect their synchronization, while skilled craftsmen maintain the gold and glasswork. Educational institutions and artisans also play a crucial role in creating the garlands that adorn the boats, contributing to the overall spectacle.