Japan: New emperor formally proclaims enthronement in a grand ceremony

Japanese Emperor Naruhito has formally proclaimed throne on Tuesday, October 22, in a grand ceremony. His rule as king officially began in the month of May this year after the abdication of his father, Emperor Akihito due to old age and deteriorating health conditions. There was a grand ceremony on Tuesday following old rituals, with dignitaries from over 180 nations present according to foreign media reports. The ceremony called 'Sokui no Rei' was held on Tuesday at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo where Naruhito officially announced his accession to Chrysanthemum throne to the rest of the world. 

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The ceremony of the Enthronement

The 59-year-old emperor in the ceremony declared "I pledge hereby that I shall act according to the Constitution and fulfil my responsibility as the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people of Japan, while always wishing for the happiness of the people and the peace of the world, turning my thoughts to the people and standing by them", as reported by international media.

In front of around 2000 people present over there, "I sincerely hope that our country, through our people's wisdom and unceasing efforts, achieves further development and contributes to the friendship and peace of the international community and the welfare and prosperity of humankind".

He spoke at the formal ceremony wearing a rust coloured robe which reminded of his father's enthronement back in 1990 and his wife Empress Masako was seated on an adjacent throne wearing a 12 layer robe. The Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe read out a formal congratulatory speech after which people shouted 'Banzai!', which means long live the emperor. There is going to be an imperial banquet on Tuesday night after the traditional ceremony. Indian President Ram Nath Koving, Britain's Prince Charles and Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam were also present over there along with hundreds of other foreign dignitaries. Even though there have been disputes going on between South Korea and Japan on trade, the Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon was on the guest list. 

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Parade postponed

The celebration mood in Japan has been affected by the deadly Typhoon Hagibis which hit the nation 10 days ago causing massive destruction. The death toll has reportedly crossed 80 and due to which, the planned celebratory parade has been postponed. In the parade, the emperor and empress were supposed to don formal Western outfits which included a gown and tiara for the queen. However, taking the current circumstances in mind, it has been postponed to November 10 by the Japanese government. The ceremonies and traditional rituals will reach its final stage in November when Naruhito will take part in the Daijosai thanksgiving ceremony. 

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(With inputs from ANI)