<|begin_of_text|><|begin_of_text|><|begin_of_text|>BANGKOK – The preliminary rites of the coronation of the new King Vajiralongkorn of Thailand, who ascended to the throne in October 2017 after the death of his father King Bhumibo, kicked<wm> in today in Bangkok.
The King's family, who are gathered in Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaew, the royal palace, have begun the traditional ritual of lighting a sacred incense cone and welcoming the King with the first offerings, such as incense, a chrysanthemum, and various flowers.

Maha Prayut Panasiri, the royal family's spokesperson, spoke in his native Burmese during a gathering to the throne room. "May our Beloved Father be</wm> forever blessed," he said on behalf of the royal family, wishing the King good wishes and blessing for