October 15, 2016
The Passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej
Upon official notice of the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand on October 13, 2016, SGI President Daisaku Ikeda sent a message to the Royal Family on behalf of SGI members in Thailand and throughout the world, offering his heartfelt condolences.
Reminiscing about the three meetings he had with the Thai King, Mr. Ikeda paid tribute to the King’s unparalleled contributions to the prosperity and happiness of the Thai people, which will remain a legacy that shines in the annals of world history. Mr. Ikeda concluded his message with prayers for the flourishing of the Kingdom of Thailand.
King Bhumibol was an accomplished painter, photographer, writer and musician. At Mr. Ikeda's suggestion, special exhibitions and concerts highlighting the Thai King's photography, music compositions and paintings were held in Tokyo and other cities over the years. In 2012, King Bhumibol was conferred an honorary doctorate in economics from Soka University of Japan.
[Adapted from an article on the October 15, 2016, issue of the Seikyo Shimbun, Soka Gakkai, Japan]
