Thailand in mourning: Queen Sirikit dies at 93

Thailand in mourning: Queen Sirikit dies at 93

The news shocked the country: the former Thai Queen Sirikit died on October 24, 2025 at the age of 93. The royal family in Bangkok made this sad announcement in an official statement that weighs heavily on the hearts of many Thais. Sirikit, known in Thailand as the Queen of Hearts, was a defining figure for over six and a half decades and remains a symbol of elegance and grace even after her death.

Sirikit's funeral will be conducted with the highest royal honors. A one-year mourning period has been declared during which the country will come together to mourn and remember the late monarch. Although she had quietly retreated from the public eye since the death of her husband, King Bhumibol, in 2016 and the coronation of her son Maha Vajiralongkorn as royal mother, she remained present in the hearts of Thais.

A life full of grace and commitment

The love story between Sirikit and Bhumibol began in Paris in 1947, where they initially met as rivals. But the relationship soon found its way into a lifelong partnership, which was sealed with the wedding in April 1950 and the subsequent coronation just a week later. Sirikit, who comes from a royal family and grew up in Europe, has been recognized not only for her beauty but also for her dedication. She headed the Thai Red Cross since 1956 and was active in social projects that contributed to the country's development.

She graced many international fashion magazines and was considered the epitome of Asian elegance in the 1950s and 1960s. She always showed style and grace at social events in Europe and was one of the best customers of the luxury Parisian tailors. Sirikit's birthday, August 12, is celebrated as a national holiday and Mother's Day in Thailand, in honor of her role as mother of four children, including King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

A withdrawal from the public

After a stroke in 2012, Sirikit increasingly withdrew from the public eye. Her last public appearance was in October 2016, when she attended her late husband's funeral procession. Her absence from Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn's coronation in May 2019 was mourned by many mourners who longed to see their beloved queen once more.

The mourning for Sirikit will linger in Thailand long after this day. Their legacies and tireless service to the community will be remembered. Thailand is not just losing a monarch, but a part of its collective memory.

The country will be in mourning for the next few months as lovers of tradition and culture cherish the memories of the Queen of Hearts.