Imagine waking up at the crack of dawn, the air filled with anticipation, much like the grandeur of a fairytale wedding, yet amidst the bustling city of Bangkok. This is not just any day; it’s Valentine’s Day, a day when love is celebrated in its myriad forms. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) decided to turn this day of love into a monumental celebration at the majestic Jewellery Trade Centre building located in the heart of Bang Rak district. The event? A testament to love’s infinity.
Bang Rak, a name that translates to “the district of love,” becomes the epicenter of matrimonial bliss each year on February 14th. Couples, hand in hand, flood the district office, eager to pledge their eternal love to one another. It’s a scene straight out of a romantic novella – love literally is in the air.
In the spirit of romance, Wiroj Khammoon and his bride, Thanipat Reungsuk, embarks on a journey from their home in Lat Phrao district, at the ungodly hour of 5:30 AM. Their mission? To be the first couple to tie the knot as the clock strikes 6. Dreams of a Valentine’s Day wedding had been dashed the previous year due to an overwhelmingly long queue, but this year, determination was their middle name.
The “Love Infinity” event, hosted by the BMA, was more than just a regular mass wedding registration. It was a celebration of love transcending the mundane, where 789 couples converged to not merely sign papers, but to be part of a grander narrative. Among the festivities was the traditional “Khan Mak” procession, a spectacle of love and commitment, and the pièce de résistance – an all-gold marriage certificate. This wasn’t just any certificate, but a luxurious symbol of everlasting love, awarded to 12 lucky couples as if proclaiming, “your love is as eternal as gold.”
Love knows no bounds, and celebrating this fact, Ramphai Meela and Duangcheewan Thongpreu, an LGBTQ+ couple, stood proudly among the throngs of lovebirds, making history as one of the first same-sex couples to register their civil partnership. Their eyes sparkled with hopes of a future where their union could evolve into an official marriage, pinned on the impending decision of the Equal Marriage Bill in Parliament.
With hearts intertwined and the spirit of love encompassing every soul, the “Love Infinity” event in Bang Rak district underscored the fact that love, in its purest form, is worth celebrating. It’s a beacon of hope, a symbol of unity, and above all, a declaration that love, in all its forms, is infinite.
What a beautiful gesture by the BMA to celebrate love in such a grandiose manner. It’s amazing to see a public authority recognizing and celebrating love, no matter the form.
While the celebration seems nice, I question the extravagance. Is this really the best use of public funds? Especially in a city with so many pressing issues.
I understand the concern about public funds, but promoting positive community events fosters a sense of unity and happiness. It’s not just about the money; it’s about what the event represents for the society.
Agree with SkepticalTom. There are better ways to use that money to benefit everyone in the community, not just couples wanting to get married on Valentine’s Day.
It’s heartwarming to see LGBTQ+ couples included in this event. It’s a step in the right direction for equality and recognition of all forms of love.
Absolutely, the inclusion of LGBTQ+ couples is a wonderful development. It shows love in all its forms and promotes a culture of acceptance and equality.
Mass weddings and extravaganzas like this dilute the sacredness of marriage. It turns a supposed lifelong commitment into a spectacle.
I disagree. Celebrating love and commitment in a fun, community-oriented way doesn’t devalue marriage. It brings people together and creates wonderful memories. Tradition evolves.
I’m with TraditionKeeper. Marriage should be a private and solemn affair, not a media circus. This seems more like a stunt than a genuine celebration of love.
But why not let people celebrate their love in their own ways? Some might find a big, public celebration perfectly fitting for them. Isn’t the important part that they are committing to each other?
An all-gold marriage certificate sounds amazing! That really would feel like your love is as eternal as gold.
Seems a bit over the top to me. It’s just a certificate. The real gold is in the relationship, not some flashy document.
True, but it’s about the symbolism. Plus, it’s a unique keepsake that makes the day even more memorable.
I’m curious about the funding for this event. It sounds expensive. Who’s footing the bill? Taxpayers?
Kudos to Bang Rak for putting on this ‘Love Infinity’ event. It’s a beautiful celebration of love and commitment. Makes me wish I lived in Bangkok!