Suche
Mein Konto
Thailand's mourning for Queen Mother Sirikit: A farewell full of love
The Thai Queen Mother Sirikit died on October 24, 2025 in Bangkok. Her death sparked nationwide mourning and commemorations.
Thailand's mourning for Queen Mother Sirikit: A farewell full of love
The Thai monarchy is in shock: On October 24, 2025, the former Queen Sirikit of Thailand died in the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok at the age of 93. Sirikit, who was the wife of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and bore the title of "Queen Mother" until the end of her life, was considered a figure of great influence and prestige in Thailand and beyond. Her death was described by the Thai royal family as a “great loss to the nation.” Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that a one-year mourning period would be declared, as well as a 90-day mourning period for the public. In addition, flags on public buildings were flown at half-mast for a period of 30 days. Citizens were encouraged to dress in black, and news anchors also wore black clothing as a sign of mourning.
Sirikit was born on August 12, 1932 and grew up in an important royal family. Her mother was the daughter of Prince Nakkhatra Mangkala Kitiyakara and often let Sirikit spend time with her grandparents while her father worked in the United States. She later became part of a family destiny that would shape her until her wedding to Bhumibol on April 28, 1950. Together they had four children who play an important role in Thai society.
A life in public
Over the decades, Sirikit became a style icon, gracing numerous fashion magazines and being admired for her elegance. In the 1950s and 1960s, she was an integral part of social life and was heavily involved in social projects, including orientations for refugees, poor farmers and survivors of the 2004 tsunami. Her efforts to support the country's Muslim minority are particularly symbolic.
After the death of King Bhumibol, who reigned for seven decades, in 2016, her son Rama X took over the throne. Sirikit's public life was sporadic, particularly after her stroke in 2012. Despite her isolation, she remained a symbol of Thai identity and national pride until the end.
Recognition and mourning worldwide
The news of Sirikit's death sparked sadness around the world. Stars, former monarchs and heads of state have paid tribute to her; among them the Spanish queen Sofía. She visited the Thai Embassy in Madrid on October 30 to sign the book of condolence provided in honor of the late Queen. Sofía and Sirikit had a close relationship, which was reflected in several meetings in 1987 and 2006.
Sofía said goodbye to Sirikit without her husband Juan Carlos, who has lived separately from her since his abdication in 2014 and spends most of his time in the United Arab Emirates. The bonds between monarchies are strong and are reinforced by such emotional moments.
The mourning for Sirikit reflects not only the loss of a queen, but also the end of a chapter in Thailand's history. Their efforts towards society and their commitment to the people will long remain in the memory of the nation. The Queen Mother's remains will be laid out in the Grand Palace's Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall from October 26, where Thais can pay their last respects.