Sunthorn Phu

Phra Sunthorn Vohara, known as Sunthorn Phu, (26 June 1786–1855) is Thailand’s best-known royal poet. He was active in the Rattanakosin era, born four years after its founding with the establishment of Bangkok as Thailand's new capital.

Sunthorn Phu's career as a royal poet began in the reign of King Rama II, and when the king died, he resigned from the role and entered the monkhood, where he remained for the next 20 years. Late in the reign of King Rama III, he emerged and took over duties as royal scribe. In the reign of King Rama IV, he was appointed to the post of director of the department of royal scribes. This was the last post he held at court, and the one in which he earned the title "Phra".

In 1986, the 200th anniversary of his birth, Sunthorn Phu was honored by UNESCO as a great world poet.
Recently, his literary works have been adapted in various media such as comics, films and songs.
His statue was erected in Klaeng District, Rayong Province, the birthplace of his father. His birthday has been declared as Sunthorn Phu day.