Critical Connections: Forum on Cultural Studies in Asia and Beyond
16 March 2012, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand

CONFERENCE KEYNOTE SCHOLAR AND GUEST SPEAKER

Distinguished Keynote Speakers

His Excellency M.R. Chakrarot Chitrabongs           (Chulalongkorn University)

M.R. Chakrarot Chitrabongs is a Distinguished Scholar of Chulalongkorn University and the Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture. A grandson of Prince Naris and Prince Damrong, Khunchai Chakrarot has been a lifelong advocate of classical Thai culture. His publications on Thai culture and other issues include Selected Articles by M.R.Chakrarot Chitrabongs (2004) and Approaching the Last Quarter of My Life (2004). He has also been an active patron of Thai arts, leading tours of classical Thai musicians, dancers and puppeteers to countries around the world.  An architect by training, he has been an influential figure in Thai architecture and was involved in, among other things, the design and decoration for the royal cremation ceremonies of the late Princess Mother, Her Royal Highness Somdej Phra Sri Nakarindra Baromraj Chonni, and the late Princess Sister, Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana Krom Luang Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra. Now retired from public service, Khunchai Chakrarot continues to be actively engaged in Thai cultural promotion and recently received a decoration from the French government in recognition of his work. He is married to M.R. Bhisabadh with three grown children.