Sunday, November 18, 2007

Thailand National Anthem





"Phleng Chat" is the national anthem of Thailand. It was adopted on 10 December 1939. The melody was composed by Peter Feit (Thai name: Phra Jenduriyang), 1883-1968, the son of a German immigrant and royal advisor for music. The words are by Luang Saranupraphan. Phleng chat, literally means "national song", is a general word for national anthem. Phleng chat thai, Thailand's national anthem, is also used to refer to this specific song.



The anthem was composed a few days after the 1932 coup, and was first broadcast in July 1932. The original lyrics were by Khun Wichitmatra. In 1939, when the name of the country was changed from Siam to Thailand, a competition was launched to create new lyrics, with those by Luang Saranuprapan winning. National anthem will be played everyday at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Thai people always show respect for the nation by standing up when they hear the song.



Translation

Thailand unites flesh and blood of Thais.

Nation of the people; belonging to the Thais in every respect.

Long maintained [has been] the independence

Because the Thais seek, and love, unity.

Thais are peace-loving;

But at war we're no cowards.

Sovereignty will not be threatened

Sacrificing every drop of blood for the nation

Hail the nation of Thailand, long last the victory, Chaiyo

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