10 Things You Didn't Know About Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej
'Strength of the land, incomparable power'
By Harper’s Bazaar Singapore Team - published
With the passing of the world's longest-reigning monarch, Thailand mourns the loss of a symbol of unity and nationhood: but behind the public image of the often inscrutable King, there was a family man, a jazz enthusiast, sailor and writer as well. In this gallery we pay tribute to the man behind the monarch. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Thailand during this sad time.
By Ryan Sng
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8. He lost vision in his right eye following a car accident in 1948; despite this he was an accomplished sailor and navigator, winning a gold medal at the SEAP Games in 1967.
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10. He objected to the fictionalized portrayals of his ancestors in Anna Leonowens’ memoirs and its subsequent musical adaptation, banning both within Thailand.
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4. He was an accidental monarch, ascending to the throne only after the passing of his elder brother.
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9. He originally majored in science at Lausanne University but switched to law and political science to better prepare for the demands of his reign.
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3. Meaning ‘strength of the land, incomparable power’, it was chosen for him by his uncle, King Rama VII.
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6. His interest in public service had its roots in his parents: mother was a nurse and his father studied public health at Harvard.
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7. He was a jazz enthusiast who played the clarinet, piano, guitar and saxophone; he also played with Benny Goodman and Stan Getz on special occasions.
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