One of the deposed sons of Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, was ordained as a Buddhist monk in Bangkok, marking a significant and symbolic return to public life.
His ordination ceremony took place on Vesak Day, a major Buddhist holiday celebrating the birth, enlightenment and nirvana of the Buddha. The ceremony was widely shared on his official Instagram account, drawing public attention and sparking speculation about his possible return to the royal family.
Despite being stripped of his royal status, Vacharaesorn’s public act of holiness has led many to question whether it signals a possible return to royal favor.
Known by his Thai nickname “Than Oun,” Vacharaesorn is the second son of King Rama X and his former mistress, Sujarinee Vivacharawongse (formerly known as Yuvadhida Polpraserth).
Born in 1981, Watcharasorn was deported from the country in 1996 along with his mother and siblings after a public feud with the royal family.
Since then, he has lived as a private citizen in the United States, practicing law and leading a relatively low-profile life.
However, in recent years – especially after his unexpected return to Thailand in 2023 – he has become increasingly visible on the public and cultural stage, frequently interacting with Thai communities in Bangkok and elsewhere.
As such, his ordination ceremony was not just a private religious milestone, but was widely seen as a potential move to re-establish his royal status.
According to Thai tradition, male royals usually live in seclusion in monasteries, especially before assuming public or political office. This stems from Buddhist principles of humility, self-discipline and religious merit – virtues that future leaders should possess.
Watcharasorn’s ordination ceremony coincided with Vesak Day, a day of great cultural and spiritual significance that commemorates the birth, enlightenment and nirvana of the Buddha. His ordination ceremony was held publicly – and broadcast via social media – and naturally attracted attention.
Analysts believe this could be a calculated hint that he is being secretly pulled back into royal affairs.
According to Spanish publication Vanitatis, the return to religious life could be an attempt to regain the favor of King Rama X and could put him at the center of Thailand’s disputed succession to the throne.
