Death of Supreme Patriarch: National mourning extended to 30 days
The national mourning period for the death of the Supreme Patriarch on Thursday night has been extended by the government from 15 to 30 days. Bangkok Post writes: 'The extension marks the depth of sorrow felt by the nation in the wake of His Holiness' death on Thursday evening.'
Officials and employees of public companies are required to wear black during the mourning period. The police have asked entertainment venues to refrain from festivities. Opposition Democrats have canceled a planned rally and anti-government protesters in Uruphong, Bangkok, are now turning their attention to the death.
Thousands of Thais witnessed His Holiness's body being taken from Chulalongkorn Hospital to Wat Bowon Niwet yesterday (photo below). Upon arrival, fifty monks from the temple held a 5-minute silence. The Crown Prince, his wife and Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn arrived at 5 am for the ablution (photo above).
Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara Suvaddhana Mahathera's body remains in the temple for 100 days until cremation takes place. Every day, mourners can pay their last respects at a portrait. A ceremony is held for the first seven days, with the Crown Prince present, followed by ceremonies on the 50th and 100th days.
(Source: Bangkok Post, October 26, 2013)