Bangkok, 12 August 2022 (TDI): Thailand celebrates National Mother’s Day on 12 August, every year. Mother’s Day in Thailand is celebrated on 12 August to commemorate Queen Sirikit’s birth.
The love of a mother is deep like the ocean, vast like the universe and powerful like the strength of a superhero, but in the real world. #HappyMothersDay 💙🤱🏻 #MothersDay pic.twitter.com/EMA9E1H5W2
— ยูนิเซฟ ประเทศไทย (@UNICEF_Thailand) August 12, 2022
In April of 1950, the first Mother’s Day was celebrated in Thailand. Mother’s Day was moved from March 14 to August 12, in 1976, to honour Queen Sirikit’s birth. The people of Thailand aspired to have the Queen as their mother. Moreover, people in Thailand also remember Queen Sirikit as ‘Queen Mother of Thailand.’
According to history, Mother’s Day can be traced back to the Ancient Greeks. Greeks conducted celebrations for the first time to honour Rhea, the Mother of the Gods. To honour Mary, the Mother of Christ, the early Christians had a Mother’s Day event on the fourth Sunday of Lent.
Mother’s Day celebrations in Thailand
In Thailand, people decorate public spaces with lights and decorations to celebrate the Queen’s birthday on 12 August. A few weeks before the Queen’s birthday, planning for the day begins. To show allegiance and affection for the Queen, citizens fly the national flag and display her image in their homes.
Additionally, local businesses participate in the activities by decorating their buildings with her images, garlands, and vibrant lights. Early in the morning, national candle-lighting rituals and fireworks displays begin the day’s celebrations.
In particular, Bangkok celebrates the birthday of the Queen with great enthusiasm. People observe the festival along Ratchadamnern Road in the area of the Grand Palace with the greatest passion.
Moreover, people in their homes also display white jasmine flowers which represent maternal affection. The flower’s pure white colour represents the unchanging purity of a mother’s unconditional love.
The day is also a significant time for children to show their mothers their love and gratitude through charitable activities, donations, and gifts.
Student of BS International Relations in Kinnaird College for Women. Currently, working in 'TDI' as a contributor.
