In a striking development within the Thai royal family, Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, known as Than Oun, has publicly shared a series of Instagram photos documenting his ordination as a Buddhist monk in Bangkok. This significant event took place on Vesak Day, a day of great importance to Buddhists around the world, marking the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. The photographs showcased not just the personal milestone for the 43-year-old but also hint at possible royal backing and the wider implications for Thailand’s complex royal succession.

The ordination has reignited discussions surrounding the future of the Thai monarchy, particularly regarding who will ultimately assume the throne. Vacharaesorn, the second son of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, better known as Rama X, has become central to these discussions. While many considered him a disowned member of the royal family, his recent actions are leading analysts to speculate that he may be positioning himself for a potential return to royal favor.

Who is Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse?
Vacharaesorn was born in 1981 to King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his first wife, actress Sujarinee Vivacharawongse, who has also been known as Yuvadhida Polpraserth. His early life took a dramatic turn in 1996 when he was exiled from Thailand along with his mother and three brothers, following a series of family disputes. They relocated to the United States, where Vacharaesorn grew up far from the public eye. Despite his civilian upbringing, he has maintained connections with the Thai community and has made public appearances since returning to Thailand unexpectedly in 2023. His recent ordination appears to be a strategic move, as it could signify his desire to reconnect with royal duties and possibly reclaim a place within the royal family.

Understanding King Rama X
King Maha Vajiralongkorn, currently aged 72, became King of Thailand in 2016 after the passing of his beloved father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. His reign has been marked by personal controversies and a turbulent royal life, often conducted from abroad, particularly in Germany. Notably, the King has had four marriages, maintaining both a queen, Suthida, and a royal consort, Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi, a revival of traditional royal practices that many observers find contentious. The King’s age, health, and the intricate dynamics within his family have created uncertainty regarding the royal succession.

Marriage and Offspring of Rama X
Rama X's marriages have produced several children: with his cousin Princess Soamsawali, he has one daughter, Princess Bajrakitiyabha; from his marriage to actress Yuvadhida, he has four sons and a daughter, Princess Sirivannavari. His other marriage to Srirasmi Suwadee resulted in one son, Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti, and his current wife, Queen Suthida, has no children. Notably, many of his sons, including Vacharaesorn, were disowned in 1996, complicating the royal lineage.

The Uncertainty of Succession
Thailand’s succession laws favor male heirs, yet King Rama X’s sole officially recognized son, Prince Dipangkorn, is believed to have developmental issues that may inhibit his potential rule. Meanwhile, Vacharaesorn, stripped of his royal title decades ago, is now seen by some as a candidate for rehabilitation into royal life. His eldest child, Princess Bajrakitiyabha, once regarded as a potential successor, has been in a coma since 2022, casting further doubt on the future of the royal line. Princess Sirivannavari, while living in Thailand and maintaining royal status, is not currently included in the official succession line.

Vacharaesorn's Potential Return
Despite his past disownment, Vacharaesorn's recent actions — including his ordination and public displays of support for his father on social media — suggest a possible rehabilitation. In Thai culture, it is customary for male royals to spend time in monasteries before taking on public responsibilities, and many observers interpret Vacharaesorn’s ordination as a signal of his intent to re-establish ties with the royal family. His prominent return during key cultural and religious events further indicates that he may be positioning himself not just as a family member but as a potential contender for the throne.

As Thailand navigates these uncertain waters of royal succession, the actions of Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse could have lasting implications not just for the royal family but for the nation as a whole.