The national anthem of Cambodia is called: « Nokor Reach ».
Continent: Asia
Bordering Countries:
– 🇱🇦 Lao People’s Democratic Republic
– 🇹🇭 Thailand
– 🇻🇳 Viet Nam
History of « Nokor Reach »
« Nokor Reach » (Majestic Kingdom) is the national anthem of Cambodia. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its reverence for the monarchy, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1941: The lyrics of « Nokor Reach » were written by Chuon Nath, a Cambodian monk and scholar. The music was composed by F. Perruchot and J. Jekyll, French musicians.
- 1941: The anthem was officially adopted as the national anthem of Cambodia during the reign of King Norodom Sihanouk.
- 1970s-1993: The anthem was temporarily replaced during periods of political upheaval, including the Khmer Rouge regime and the People’s Republic of Kampuchea. It was reinstated in 1993 following the restoration of the monarchy.
Anecdotes
- Monarchical Reverence: The anthem was composed to honor the Cambodian monarchy and its role in uniting and guiding the nation. The lyrics emphasize the glory and majesty of the kingdom.
- Political Changes: « Nokor Reach » was replaced by different anthems during the Khmer Rouge regime and the subsequent People’s Republic of Kampuchea. However, it was reinstated in 1993 when the monarchy was restored, symbolizing a return to traditional values and stability.
- Cultural Significance: « Nokor Reach » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Cambodian people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Cambodians.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Khmer
សូមពួកទេវតាថែរក្សា
ព្រះបរមរាជាណាចក្រកម្ពុជា
ជាតិ សាសន�� ព្រះមហាក្សត្រ
ជ័យជម្នះរុងរឿងមហានគរ
អោយមានសេចក្តីសុខសាន្តក្នុងស្រុកខ្មែរIn English (translation)
Heaven protect our King
And grant him happiness and glory
To reign over our ancient kingdom
That is the great Kingdom of Cambodia
May there be happiness and peace in the land of the Khmer.Sources: