First main foundation pillar of royal pyre erected

BANGKOK, Feb 27 (TNA) – The main foundation pillar-setting ceremony was held at Sanam Luang on Monday, the auspicious day, marking the beginning of the construction of the 50.49-meter-high crematorium for the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha presided over the ceremony 10 am. to erect four pillars, about 23 metres high and weighing almost 20 tonnes each. The crematorium will be 60x60 metres at its base. Buddhist monks chanted prayers during the Brahmin blessing ceremony. The installation of the metal structure and pillars is scheduled to be finished by March before the artistic work of decoration will be assembled to make the elaborate royal pyre. The royal crematorium is designed to symbolize Mount Sumeru – the centre of the Buddhist Universe, where the king' divine spirit will return. (TNA)