Garuda

The National Emblem (National Symbol) of Thailand features the Garuda ,a figure from both Buddhist and Hindu mythology. In Thailand, this figure is used as a symbol of the royal family. This version of the figure is referred to as Krut Pha, meaning "garuda with outstretched wings."

A large and savage mythological bird, mount of the Hindu god Vishnu. He is the king of birds and half-brother, and arch-enemy of the nagas and snakes. He is depicted with a human body and the wings, feet and beak of a bird, and in art often in battle with a snake or naga. In Thailand he is also called Krut and is the nation's royal symbol, showing the connection between the Thai monarch as the protector of the nation, and the mighty god Vishnu as the protector of the universe.

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