The burial rites for the late Asante Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, have started with thousands of people from all walks of life trooping to the Ashanti Regional town to mourn.

The royal farewell scheduled from June 6 to 9 will be climaxed on Monday with the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II honouring the final rites.

The burial rites known in Akan as 'Doteyie' is a period of mourning as people clad in black and red participate in several traditional and cultural activities.

Amid drumming and dancing, traditional priests, in their sacred regalia, lead ancient rituals to honour the passing of the paramount chief.