Bhumibol was crowned King of Thailand on 5 May 1950 at the Royal Palace in

Bangkok where he pledged that he would "reign with righteousness for the benefit
and happiness of the Siamese people" ("
").[31] Notable elements associated with the coronation included
the Bahadrabith Throne beneath the Great White Umbrella of State; and he was
presented with the royal regalia and utensils. [32]
In 1950 on Coronation Day, Bhumibol's consort was made Queen (Somdej Phra
Boromarajini). The date of his coronation is celebrated each 5 May in Thailand as
Coronation Day, a public holiday. On 9 June 2006, Bhumibol celebrated his 60th
anniversary as the King of Thailand, becoming the longest reigning monarch in Thai
history.
Following the death of his grandmother Queen Savang Vadhana, Bhumibol entered
a 15-day monkhood (22 October 1956 5 November 1956) at Wat Bowonniwet, as
is customary for Buddhist males on the death of elder relatives. [33] During this time,
Sirikit was appointed his regent. She was later appointed Queen Regent (Somdej
Phra Boromarajininat) in recognition of this.