Hrh princess galyani vadhana funeral

Crimson-clad soldiers pulled a gilded chariot containing the body of the revered Thai king's sister, Princess Galyani Vadhana, to a seven-storey pyre.

The princess’s embalmed remains have lain in state at the Grand Palace since her death and have been visited by at least 1.5 million people paying their respects.

The elaborate chariot carried an urn with the remains of the princess, as the funeral procession made its way from the Grand Palace through the heart of old Bangkok.

Soldiers in dress uniform marched alongside the chariot, which weighs more than 14 tonnes.

Thousands of Thais lined the route of the funeral procession to bid farewell to the princess, while millions more watched the ceremony on television.

Some carried their own mementos of the princess, who died 10 months ago from abdominal cancer aged 84.

Others prayed for her alongside giant images that lined the route of the procession.

Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn walked with honour guards at the royal funeral, which analysts say is intended in part to reinforce the monarchy’s status in Thai society.

Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn was presiding over the ceremony, representing King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

At the end of its journey, the urn was elevated to the crematorium accompanied by a Brahmin priest.

As night fell, King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit arrived at the funeral pyre to perform the royal cremation.

Buddhist monks chanted as King Bhumibol Adulayadej lit a symbolic pyre - broadcast live on television. The princess's body was actually cremated in an electric incinerator a short time later.