London: Britain marks its most significant ceremonial event in seven decades as Charles III ascends to the throne on Saturday.
As he assumes the role of king, he will become the oldest British monarch to receive the 360-year-old St Edward’s Crown and sit on the 14th-century throne in London’s Westminster Abbey.
This marks the first coronation of a British monarch since 1937 and confirms his religious confirmation following the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, last year.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The event is expected to draw thousands of spectators to line the streets, while millions worldwide will tune in from home.
- Charles III and his wife Camilla will travel to the abbey in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, drawn by six Windsor Grey horses, and accompanied by members of the king’s bodyguard, the Household Cavalry.
- The coronation will be a smaller affair than the 1953 event for Queen Elizabeth II, with only 2,000 attendees. However, it will still feature historical regalia, including golden orbs, bejewelled swords, and a sceptre holding the world’s largest colourless cut diamond.
- In addition, there will be an “unprecedented” greeting from leaders of other faiths, and Prince George and Camilla’s grandchildren will serve as pages.
- The Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak will make history by giving a reading from the Bible as the head of the UK government.
- Princes Harry and Andrew will attend but will have no formal role in the ceremony, indicating their estrangement from the royal family.
- After the coronation, the new king and queen will return to Buckingham Palace in the Gold State Coach, accompanied by some 4,000 British and Commonwealth troops in full regalia.
- Upon their return, they will make a traditional appearance on the balcony, with a fly-past by military aircraft.
- Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and actor Sonam Kapoor are among the Indians to attend King Charles III’s coronation ceremony.
- The ceremony at Westminster Abbey will host heads of state and governments along with foreign dignitaries for the royal spectacle.