Shrines to their beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej have been erected by the Thais all over their city – in malls, hotels, by roads, streets and alleys, temples, churches and government buildings among others.
King Bhumibol died in Bangkok on Oct 13, 2016 at the age of 88.
Months of palace rituals are to take place, while entertainment and events have been toned down during the mourning period.
There are two mourning periods – the 30 days mourning period, followed by the one-year mourning period which mainly applies to government officials.
As a mark of respect, a minute of silence is observed at events while organizers, participants and visitors donned muted colours and black ribbons on their lapels.
Tourist too have been advised to dress and behave in an appropriate and respectable manner.
Life goes on for most Thais, but flags were flown at half mast and some shops and night markets closed early as a mark of respect during the 30-day mourning period that ended on Nov 14.
The gloomy weather brought on by the year-end rainy season seems to add to the somber mood in this bustling city.
Maria Dass the World 