Chief’s royal seven day send-off begins
TRAGIC Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was yesterday laid to rest in a huge gold eight-sided urn as his seven-day funeral, sponsored by the Thai royal family, began in Bangkok.
The billionaire’s body was blessed in a bathing ceremony in which family and friends poured scented water over his remains to ritually purify his body.
Royal family musicians last night played songs to honour him and Buddhist monks chanted at the country’s Wat Thep Sirin Temple. Mourners included top government officials, businessmen and other public figures in Thai society. “The room inside was overflowing,” said Sonia Couling, a former international supermodel.
“Vichai was generous, a kind man with a great sense of humour.”
Thailand deputy PM Prawit Wongsuwan was among the mourners. Kreangsin Limnantaluck – head of Toyota in Thailand and a family friend – said about 300 people attended the ceremony. “I felt touched to be here today,’ he added, describing Vichai, 61, as a pleasant person “full of smiles”.
Former Thailand national soccer team coach Kiattisak Senamuang said: “I’m here to show support. May Vichai rest in peace.” It is understood cremation may not be carried out for 100 days, as part of royal tradition.