King Rama V Statue, Bangkok

King Chulalongkorn or King Rama V, one of the most legendary figures in the history of Thailand's monarchy, was a generous king. He eradicated various social evils including slavery from the Thai kingdom. Because of his friendly manners, he established amiable relations with the European royalty and other neighboring countries. During his rule of 42 years, he played a revolutionary role in paving the way for a modernized Thailand.

A living memory of this great king is present in Bangkok in the form of his equestrian monument near the Dusit Palace. The monument depicts King Rama V riding an elegant stallion standing high on a pedestal. In fact, it was the first statue built in honor of any Thai king. Sculpted in bronze and erected to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the coronation of the King, the statue was cast in Paris and was completed in 1908. Public raised a huge fund worth a million baht for the establishment of the monument. King Rama V inaugurated the monument himself. Just two years after that, the king died quite tragically in October 1910. People celebrate his death anniversary even today and gather near the statue to show their gratitude towards their former monarch. After his death, his son King Rama IV established Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, in honor of his father, with the remaining funds.

Many Thai people consider the statue of Rama V as an object of worship. On Tuesday, the day when the king was born, the whole place was full of devotees who visit the statue for good luck and prosperity. According to them, those who seek their blessings from the King get their prayers answered in the form of good fortune, especially in business. Many people visit the statue daily to pay their obeisance to the king and to light candles and incense sticks at the site. Followers also present brandy to the king.

Thais deeply respect this monument and can be seen praying and paying homage to the great king all the year round.