Royal Ploughing Ceremony

Description:

• Conducted at the city's major park, Sanam Luang, this ceremony highlights an ancient Brahmin ritual that farmers believe is able to forecast the abundance of the rice crop. Re-introduced in 1960 by H.M. King Bhumibol, it marks the official commencement of the rice growing season. Crimson-clad attendants lead water buffaloes, drawing an old-fashioned plough around a specially prepared ground. The lord of ceremonies, usually the Minister of Agriculture, follows behind, scooping rice seeds out of baskets held by prettty maidens and sowing it in the furrows left by the plough - all to the accompaniment of conch shells and drums.
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