Largest gathering of kites to mark special anniversaries

[PeteC]

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/nationa ... 31687.html

The world's largest number of flying kites will hover over Sanam Luang in an event starting tomorrow held to celebrate the 232nd anniversary of Bangkok and the fifth cycle birthday anniversary of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

"We will fly as many as 10,231 kites," Culture Ministry permanent secretary Preecha Gunteeya said yesterday. His ministry will hold an event to celebrate the special anniversaries between April 19 and April 21.

King Rama I established Bangkok as the capital of Siam, now known as Thailand, on April 21, 1782.

Preecha said members of the general public were welcome to join the kite-flying activities, as some 400 kite flyers were needed.

"We will give away 232 kites each day too," he said.

Kite-flying was a very popular activity in the Early Rattanakosin period, with Sanam Luang being the most famous kite-flying location.