In Thailand, the funeral of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha is underway and it is an elaborate one. Royal soldiers, monks and relatives of the deceased took part in a procession ahead of the ceremony.
The royally sponsored funeral is being held at a temple in Bangkok with top government officials, businessmen and other public figures in attendance.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister, the president of the Football Association of Thailand and the coach of Thailand’s women’s football team were among the guests.
The venue as expected is heavily guarded by scores of security officers. The funeral began with Buddhist bathing rituals and recitation ceremonies will follow for the next seven days.
The ceremony is held behind closed doors.
Khun Vichai was a devout Buddhist who had monks bless his team’s King Power Stadium regularly as well as his players for good luck charm.
He had a cordial relationship with his players and forged close ties with supporters and the people of the local community.