Latest news with #RamaX
Hindustan Times
28-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
World's richest monarch owns 300 high-end cars 38 jets, 52 boats. It's not King Charles
Thailand's King Maha Vajralongkorn, also known as King Rama X, holds the title of the richest monarch in the world, with an estimated net worth of $30-70 billion, reported Al Jazeera. His immense fortune exceeds that of King Charles III of the United Kingdom, whose net worth is estimated to be around $747 million. Also Read: World's richest influencer is a billionaire; donates all earnings, still richer than Tom Cruise, Johnny Depp, Shah Rukh Among his possessions, most of which are inherited are over 17,000 properties in Bangkok alone and is one of the biggest landowners in Thailand's capital city. His portfolio comprises commercial structures, high-end hotels, and ancient palaces as well. In his royal collection, the monarch owns 300 high-end cars, from classic Rolls-Royces to contemporary supercars. His also owns collection 38 private jets, and a fleet of 52 golden boats, which are used for traditional royal ceremonies. Also Read: This Indian-origin family behind a major conglomerate crowned UK's richest for 4th consecutive year | Find out who Vajiralongkorn, after his father's death in 2016, took over assets held by the Crown Property Bureau (CPB), an institution that controls royal real estate and business holdings. King Rama X in 2018 took over the administration of the state property further bolstering his finances. Born in 1952, King Vajiralongkorn is the only son of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. He received his military education in the UK and Australia, and is a trained jet and helicopter pilot, reported Reuters. He earned a degree in military studies from the Canberra's prestigious Royal Military College and later served in the Royal Thai Army. In the 1970s, he even took part in counter-insurgency missions. Also Read: Emmanuel Macron and wife Brigitte's net worth revealed: Know who is richer Vajiralongkorn established "Crown Prince Hospitals" through funds donated by the public to serve as medical and health care centers for people living in remote areas. In August 2011, German judicial authorities in Munich impounded a Boeing 737 aircraft, one of two belonging to Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn because of a 20-year-old Thai government debt worth €30 million. In November 2016, Manager Magazin published a report stating that the new king could be issued with an inheritance tax bill in excess of €3.5 billion due to residences he owned in Bavaria.
India.com
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, son of billionaire Thailand king Rama X, who has become monk, his move may....
Meet Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, son of billionaire Thailand king Rama X, who has become monk, his move may.... Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, the estranged son of Thailand's King Rama X who was disowned, recently appeared on Instagram and had posted a series of images on Instagram. In the images, he appears as a Buddhist monk, hinting that the move may have royal backing and deeper implications for Thailand's uncertain royal succession. The ordination of Vivacharawongse, commonly referred to as Than Oun, has renewed the debate around who will become Thailand's next king. Who is Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse? Vacharaesorn is the second son of King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) and his former wife, actress-turned-royal Sujarinee Vivacharawongse (formerly Yuvadhida Polpraserth). Born in 1981, Vacharaesorn was raised in the United States after being exiled from the Thai royal family in 1996, along with his mother and three brothers. Vacharaesorn showed his presence in public events since his surprise return to Thailand in 2023. Notably, despite growing up abroad and living as a civilian, he has remained connected to the Thai community. King Maha Vajiralongkorn has been married four times and is known for maintaining both a queen and a royal consort, reviving centuries-old palace traditions. His health, age, and complicated family dynamics have thrown the royal succession into question. Why is the royal succession unclear? Thailand laws of succession prioritise male heirs, but King Rama X's only officially recognised son, Prince Dipangkorn, is believed to suffer from a developmental condition that may hinder his ability to rule. Meanwhile, most of Rama X's other sons, including Vacharaesorn, were stripped of their royal titles in 1996. Princess Bajrakitiyabha, his eldest child from his first marriage, was once seen as a potential heir – if the king chose to rewrite the laws that don't allow a woman on the throne.
Time of India
27-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Meet Thailand's richest king with 38 jets, 300 cars, and 52 golden boats — know more about the man behind the fortune
While the world is home to many billionaires, few embody the fusion of royal heritage, national influence, and immense wealth like King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand, also known as King Rama X. As reported, his estimated net worth exceeds Rs 3.7 lakh crore (around USD 43 billion), earning him the title of the richest king globally. Unlike corporate tycoons, his fortune stems from centuries-old monarchy assets, real estate, and strategic holdings in major Thai corporations. King Vajiralongkorn's extraordinary wealth reflects not just personal affluence, but the enduring financial power of Thailand's royal institution. King Vajiralongkorn builds his fortune through Thailand's royal legacy In contrast to self-made billionaires whose wealth is a result of entrepreneurship or technology, the wealth of King Vajiralongkorn lies in centuries of royal tradition. Upon his father's death, the beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2016, Vajiralongkorn took over huge assets held by the Crown Property Bureau (CPB), an institution that controls huge areas of royal real estate and business holdings. Though once regarded as state property, King Rama X remade this arrangement in 2018 by putting direct authority of the CPB into his own hands—yet further tightening his grip on finances. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trading CFD dengan Teknologi dan Kecepatan Lebih Baik IC Markets Mendaftar Undo His fortune is not merely inherited. Strategic investment over the years in Thailand's most lucrative businesses, such as big banks, telecommunication companies, and real estate, have immensely contributed to his wealth. In contrast to Western monarchs who are subject to tight financial control, Vajiralongkorn's portfolio is mostly shrouded from public view, which grants more freedom and discretion to his assets. King Vajiralongkorn fortune King Vajiralongkorn's fortune is matched only by the opulence of his lifestyle. He is in possession of over 17,000 properties in Bangkok alone and is one of the biggest landowners in the capital city. His property portfolio comprises commercial structures, high-end hotels, and ancient palaces—most of which produce handsome rental income. Aside from land, his hoard of luxury possessions is mind-boggling. He is said to have more than 300 high-end cars in his collection, from classic Rolls-Royces to contemporary supercars. His private aviation fleet comprises 38 planes and helicopters, many of which are specially designed for royal use. In line with Thai royal protocol, he also has a ceremonial fleet of 52 golden barges, employed in elaborate river processions that reflect the monarchy's strong cultural connection with the country. King Vajiralongkorn's early life Born in 1952 to King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit, Vajiralongkorn is their sole son. Raised from an early age to take over the throne, he was given elite military training abroad, where he studied in the United Kingdom and then at the University of New South Wales in Australia, graduating in military studies. He also had pilot training and served with the Royal Thai Army, where he saw action in counter-insurgency campaigns during the politically charged 1970s. This military experience has had a profound influence on his character and leadership style. As monarch, he has ceremonial command of the Thai military, bolstering both his position as sovereign and national security figure. Thailand's monarchy faces new challenges under King Vajiralongkorn Though King Vajiralongkorn wields vast institutional authority, his private life has frequently been the subject of controversy and international media scrutiny. His four marriages, three of them ended in divorce, have been the subject of tabloid headlines. He now spends much of his time in Germany, a move that has raised eyebrows among Thai people and the international community alike. His reign has also been accompanied by increasing demands for monarchical reform in Thailand. With stringent lèse-majesté laws that criminalize any criticism of the royal family, there has been a protest movement challenging the king's increasing powers and the political powers of the monarchy by young people over recent years. King Vajiralongkorn's fortune mixes royal power with business Although the economic fiefdom of others like Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos could overshadow that of King Vajiralongkorn in terms of sheer figures, the Thai king's role is singular. Unlike capitalist moguls who accumulate riches under capitalism, Vajiralongkorn is a confluence of conventional power, capital, and symbolic authority. His role is not only fiscal but cultural, deeply embedded in the national consciousness of Thailand. In contrast, India's wealthiest entrepreneurs—Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani—are continuing to increase their wealth with expansive business dynasties. Ambani's net worth, as of May 2025, is estimated at USD 92.5 billion, while Adani's is approximately USD 56.3 billion. Both control sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and infrastructure but within corporate regimes and public spheres of control. In spite of continued controversy and changing public attitudes, King Vajiralongkorn is still a powerful symbol of Thailand's monarchical heritage. His riches, derived from history and business, enable him to enjoy an extraordinary life of privilege and power. From golden boats to vast landholdings and international living, King Rama X is a unique combination of heritage, opulence, and contemporary power in a world where most monarchs have lost their political clout. Also Read | Thailand King's disowned son makes surprising return as Buddhist monk, sparking speculation about royal comeback
News18
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
As Estranged Son Of Thailand King Becomes Buddhist Monk, Succession Debate Continues
Last Updated: Vacharaesorn, who was exiled in 1996, returned to Thailand in 2023. Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, the estranged son of Thailand's King Rama X, has posted a series of images on Instagram, showing his recent ordination as a Buddhist monk. The ceremony, which took place in Bangkok on Vesak Day — one of the most sacred days in Buddhism — was highly visible and far from discreet. The 43-year-old's decision to take monastic vows has led to growing speculation about Thailand's unresolved royal succession. Many observers believe his actions may signal an attempt to reconnect with the royal establishment or position himself differently in the public eye. Vivacharawongse's ordination has reignited public discussion and speculation over the question of Thailand's royal succession and who may eventually ascend to the throne. Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse: Who is he? Vacharaesorn, born in 1981, is the second son of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) and his former wife, Sujarinee Vivacharawongse, a former actress previously known as Yuvadhida Polpraserth. In 1996, following a royal fallout, Vacharaesorn, his mother, and three brothers were exiled and subsequently raised in the United States. Although Vacharaesorn spent much of his life overseas and lived outside royal circles, he has maintained strong ties with the Thai community. Since his unexpected return to Thailand in 2023, he has made several public appearances, sparking renewed public interest. His recent ordination as a Buddhist monk has further intensified speculation that he may be paving the way for a possible return to royal life. According to a report by Vanitatis, his presence in Bangkok could be a strategic move to win back the favour of his father, King Rama X. With four marriages and the rare practice of officially having both a queen and a royal consort, he has revived some of the monarchy's traditional customs. However, concerns around his age, health, and complex family situation have cast uncertainty over who will eventually succeed him. Thailand's succession laws prioritise male heirs, but King Rama X's only officially recognised son, Prince Dipangkorn, is reported to have a developmental condition that could affect his capacity to rule. Meanwhile, the majority of Rama X's other sons—including Vacharaesorn—were stripped of their royal titles back in 1996, further complicating the line of succession.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Thailand King's disowned son makes surprising return as Buddhist monk, sparking speculation about royal comeback
Source: Instagram Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, one of the disowned sons of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), has been ordained as a Buddhist monk in Bangkok, marking a significant and symbolic return to public life. His ordination took place on Vesak Day — a major Buddhist holiday celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. The event was widely shared on his official Instagram, drawing public attention and sparking speculation about his potential reintegration into royal circles. Though once stripped of royal status, Vacharaesorn's visible spiritual gesture has led many to question whether this could signal a path back to royal favour. Who is Thailand King's disowned son Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse Vacharaesorn, whose Thai nickname is "Than Oun," is the second son of King Rama X and former mistress Sujarinee Vivacharawongse (formerly actress Yuvadhida Polpraserth). Vacharaesorn was born in 1981 and was banished together with his mother and siblings in 1996 after a public rift with the royal family. Since then, he has resided as a private citizen of the United States, practicing law and living a relatively low-key existence. In recent years, though — especially after his unexpected return to Thailand in 2023 — he has become increasingly visible on the public and cultural scene, frequently mingling with the Thai community in Bangkok and elsewhere. His ordination, thus, is not merely a private religious landmark. It is generally seen as a potential move towards re-establishing him in royal ranks. Thai tradition and spiritual significance In Thai tradition, male members of the royal family traditionally retreat to monastic life, especially prior to taking on public or political roles. This is based on Buddhist principles of humility, self-control, and religious merit — virtues demanded of future leaders. Vacharaesorn's ordination on Vesak Day, a day to mark the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha, has such strong cultural and spiritual significance. That his ordination has taken place in public — disseminated through social media — has not escaped attention. Analysts consider it could be a calculated indication he is being surreptitiously brought back into royal business. As per Spanish publication Vanitatis, the return to religious life can be an effort to restore King Rama X's favor and potentially place him in the middle of Thailand's disputed royal succession. King Rama X's family and reign King Maha Vajiralongkorn, or Rama X, took the throne in 2016 after his father, the highly respected King Bhumibol Adulyadej, died. Rama X, now 72 years of age, has had a reign characterized by drama and personal intrigue, frequently doing royal work out of Germany, where he spends most of the year. He has been married four times, kept a queen and a royal consort, and has children with more than one partner — all of which are currently causing the line of succession to be unclear. Rama X's children cross several relationships: Princess Soamsawali (his cousin): One daughter, Princess Bajrakitiyabha Sujarinee Vivacharawongse: Four sons, including Vacharaesorn, and one daughter, Princess Sirivannavari. The sons were disowned in 1996. Srirasmi Suwadee: One son, Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti Queen Suthida: No children He also has a royal consort, Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi, whose royal title was briefly stripped and then restored. Why is Thailand's royal succession in question The succession crisis is both legal and psychological. Thai law favours male succession, but the king's only officially sanctioned son, Prince Dipangkorn, is said to be afflicted with a developmental disorder, which poses questions about his ability to effectively govern. In the meantime, Princess Bajrakitiyabha, a possible heir, has been in coma since 2022, after a sudden medical emergency. Her condition is still uncertain, with no significant public report on her status. While Princess Sirivannavari performs royal functions and has official rank, she is not in the line of succession under existing law — unless female succession becomes allowed under the rules, which the monarch has not sought. That puts the future of the throne in limbo, with Vacharaesorn's return and ordination into the clergy now potentially a strategic move. Vacharaesorn's gradual return to the royal family Even formally deposed of his royal rank some twenty-nine years ago, Vacharaesorn's recent behaviour and growing prominence imply an unofficial rehabilitation process under way. His public show of deference to his father, involvement in national and cultural affairs, and now ordination, all indicate a slow process of reintegration. Thai commentators point out that within royal tradition, returning from exile by deeds of religious devotion has precedents in the past. If Prince Dipangkorn, in the end, is found to be unsuitable to reign, and no female succession is provided for through constitutional amendment, Vacharaesorn — although illegitimate — might find himself as a reasonable candidate for succession, particularly if backed by royal mandate. Vacharaesorn's role amid monarchy's challenges The symbolism and timing of Vacharaesorn's return is also important. At a time when the Thai monarchy is beset by internal instability and international criticism, the return of a discarded royal son to a visible and culturally symbolic role implies there is some deeper strategic rationale at play. Whether formally reinstated or not, Vacharaesorn's ordination serves as a reminder that the Thai royal succession is still an open issue — one determined not just by blood, but by public perception, cultural orthodoxy, and political determination. Also Read | Annabelle doll missing! Rumors of haunted disappearance spark internet frenzy and local panic in Louisiana; 'Where is it now?'
