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Prince Abhakara Shrine, Bangkok, Thailand |
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| This small "Shrine (for) Admiral General Royal Prince, Prince of Chumphon", พระตำนัก พลเรือเอกพระเจ้ าบรมวงศ์เธอกรมหลวงชุมพรเข, is dedicated to Admiral Prince Abhakara Kiartiwongse, Prince of Chumphon, พระเจ้าบรมวงศ์เธอ พระองค์เจ้าอาภากรเกียรติวงศ์ กรมหลวงชุมพรเขตอุดมศักดิ์. Prince Abhakara was the 28th child of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). The Prince is known as the Father of the Thai Navy, as Sadej Tia (Royal Father), and as "Doctor Phon". The Prince spent his early years in England studying naval warfare after which he returned to Siam (as Thailand was known at the time) and served in the Royal Siamese Navy, contributing significantly to the advancement and modernization of the navy. The Prince was honored as the "Father of the Royal Thai Navy" for his many contributions. Prince Abhakara also studied medicine, particularly herbal medicine, and used his knowledge to treat patients of all classes and nationalities. He was also recognized in the field of supernatural arts, with a reputation for magical abilities that caused him to be regarded as one of the "108 Deities in Heaven". Held in great respect by Thai people of all walks of life, he is particularly recognized by worshipers who call themselves his "children" and pray to him for fulfillment of their wishes. This Shrine is one manifestation of that high regard. Prince Abhakara died in 1923 at the age of 44. The Shrine shows significant Indian influence. (Assistance with Thai translations kindly provided by Mr. Taywin Boonjindasap.) | |||||
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Scenic
Photography by Gerry Gantt from Thailand, the land of Golden Wats. All images Copyright © 1999-2010 by Gerry Gantt, all rights reserved. |
