The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

CUSTOM

THE MOST HONORED AND RESPECTED PERSON IN THAILAND IS THE KING.
HE IS THE SPIRITUAL LEADER OF THE PEOPLE, THE TEMPORAL HEAD OF
THE COUNTRY AND THE SYMBOL OF THAILAND'S CULTURE. HIS PICTURE
AND THAT OF THE ROYAL FAMILY IS DISPLAYED IN THE SHOPS, HOMES AND
OFFICES. AT THE END OF LARGE GATHERINGS,
MOVIES, PLAYS, OR RECEPTIONS
THE KING'S ANTHEM IS PLAYED AND EVERYONE STANDS AT ATTENTION.
IN THE MOVIES, HIS PICTURE IS SHOWN ON THE SCREEN AND EVERYONE IS
EXPECTED TO RISE. CRIMES OF DISRESPECT AGAINST THE KING ARE
PUNISHABLE BY LAW.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Keyword(s): SOCIAL CLASS RANK THAILAND

Subject headings:

CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- Street Trip Relations between relatives, friends, host and guest Social class Rank

Date learned: 03-00-1971