The Kings Speech Granted to Chiang Mai University Students and Faculty Members on February 2, 1966
I am glad to welcome all the students and faculty members from Chiang Mai University. Id like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to all of you who have assisted us in all kinds of activities. Even though Chiang Mai University was officially established for only a little over a year ago, you have helped in receiving several state visitors and guests of the country. Thank you for your understanding of the benefits of acting for the general public which is our country. We have to build ourselves up. If you understand this point you have accomplished part of your study opportunities. You have seen clearly that Chiang Mai University has an elephant holding a torch as its symbol. The elephant stands for Chiang Mai and the torch for light and knowledge, which is very essential. For instance, now they turn on the light causing us see the people below. But this light here is for photographing or filming. They turn it on and then off making it turn dark so we cannot see anything. But the light of knowledge enables us to see. Another thing is we cannot control that light that they turn on and off. When they want to shoot the film they turn it on, when not, its off, making us dizzy with blurring vision. Now its off. But if we have the light of our own, we can see the path. We dont need to depend on others. But if we have to depend on someone elses light, we may be able to see some things. That is, one with a little knowledge can depend on other peoples light. But it depends on if the person means well, he will direct the light toward the good path, but if he means ill thinking that its none of his business, he will flash the light at our eyes as happened awhile ago. Even the teachers wont be able to see things and stumble. This is just an analogy. The same is true with knowledge. In fact, it could be just some light or the flash of electricity, there is some difference. Each person has his/her own light that is the amount of knowledge he obtains and he has to use it. If it is not used, we could be lured by others. If we have more knowledge, we have the duty to show the right path to others so that they will not fall or stumble. So an elephant holding a torch or fire or light means the university has imparted knowledge to students. No, actually, it is the teachers who do that. They have obtained some knowledge and now they have the duty to equip their students with some light of their own. And the knowledge has to be used properly to make the country advance and safe so that all of us can survive. This is the main essence of light. We can compare it to other things with both the good and bad side of light, for instance, if the light is inadequate or when someone flashes it into our eyes to blur our vision. Light is also associated with heat. If we use it in a good way it is useful; if it is used in a bad way it can burn up things and cause danger. So, think about this. Dr. Buaret asked me to give a speech, a teaching, I think this will be good enough. So, be a little careful about fire. Now, please go on with the meal. We will have to climb the hill in a little while. If you have more energy, youll be able to go fast. One who has more light can see better. But today, its rather dark so be careful with the trees. We carefully and dearly cherish our trees. Make yourselves comfortable. The food is up there. You must be hungry already. We have a bonfire. People who come up here think the weather will be nice and comfortable so they do not bring warm clothes along. We have to get warm from it. Its not for showing the path though but for warmth. So, please walk carefully and get your fill of the food. Well, there is some advice from our hostess, here.
If you are cold you can take some food and eat inside the building. (H.M. the Queens advice)
Please make yourselves at home. Enjoy it so youll have strength to go on with your studies. You must be somewhat worried about that. You must feel chilly about the examination. But take heart and youll be successful. Students are always concerned with exams. Is it coming close now or not? Anyway, you would like to get some blessing, especially for the final exam. Actually, there is something you can do yourself. If you study hard you will surely pass the exam. Alright, Ill pray for you to be diligent in your studies, to have good concentration and determination. Teachers probably like students who are good or smart and they will probably not be too harsh. As a matter of fact, a tough teacher is that way because he wants his students to be encouraged and not be negligent of his studies. Well, I have talked on and on. You must be really hungry. Lets go and eat.
The Day of the Audience
On Wednesday, February 2, 1966, teachers and students of Chiang Mai University, approximately 1,200, were granted an opportunity to have an audience with their Majesties at Bhuping Palace.
It was deemed the greatest kindness that the King bestowed on them to be that close to him. It was the evening time around 6.45 p.m. when the usually quiet palace surrounded by the splendid natural beauty of the royal private residence became bright with light and lanterns with over 1,000 instructors and students present anxiously waiting at the open terrace to meet the King and the Queen. At 9.30 p.m. HRH Princess Ubanrattana came out at the front veranda and Prof. Dr. Buaret Khamthong, Vice President of the university on behalf of the faculty members and students gave a speech to express their loyalty and vow to protect Their Majesties and the royal family with their life and to request for a royal speech. Then he presented the King with a set of flowers, candles and incense sticks along with a photograph of Their Majesties presiding over the opening ceremony of the university on January 24, 1965. Then the King granted a speech creating a wonderful feeling and impression among the teachers and students.
After that, they joined in singing the Royal Anthem. Then they moved around various food stalls provided for them by Their Majesties around the main residence. Their Majesties and Princess Ubonrattana led the Vice president around the food stalls before sitting at the table to have some dinner with them in a friendly and hospitable manner. During that time the student musical band played some music for them. After finishing the meal, the King went by the students piano while Princess Ubonrattana sang over ten songs, with them and The Queen was surrounded by the students and asked them about their situations in the family-like atmosphere. This special moment will always be in their memory. Around 9.15 p.m., the Queen played a piano piece giving great delight to all who attended. As Their Majesties retired to rest for the night along with the Princess, the teachers and students accompanied them to their residence and sang the royal anthem one more time with love and gratitude beyond words to express. And this will be an unforgettable moment in their lives, and it will remain in their hearts forever.
Reference
Chiang Mai University. Public Relations Section. (1966).
Phraboromrachowat Phraratchathan kae naksueksa lae achan
mahawithayalai Chiang Mai na phrathamnak phuphingratchaniwet,
February 2, 1966. Mo Cho Parithat, 2(6), 3-5.
Chiang Mai University Library
Chiang Mai
ntic@lib.cmu.ac.th
Chiang Mai University. Information Technology Service Center
Saving or printing of all photos or contents are allowed only for research or study purposes. For other purposes, contact the Chiang Mai University Library for permission.
Return to picture archives page
Click on picture to enlarge
