Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, known for her elegance and charm, has passed away at the age of 93, as confirmed by the Thai Royal Household bureau on Saturday. Since suffering a stroke in 2012, Sirikit had been leading a private life.
Sirikit, wife of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who reigned for an impressive 70 years from 1946, was a beloved figure in Thailand. Together, they engaged in charitable endeavors that endeared them to the public. Sirikit’s grace and fashion sense also captivated global audiences during their international travels.
Born in 1932, Sirikit Kitiyakara hailed from a privileged background, with her father serving as Thailand’s ambassador to France. She met Bhumibol while pursuing her studies in Paris, leading to a love story that culminated in their marriage in Thailand when she was just 17 years old.
Renowned for her style, Sirikit collaborated with renowned designer Pierre Balmain to create stunning outfits using Thai silk, supporting the country’s silk industry. Alongside the king, she dedicated over four decades to uplifting rural communities through development projects, a commitment showcased on national television.
Sirikit also briefly served as regent in 1956 when Bhumibol undertook a temporary monastic retreat. Her birthday later became a national holiday in Thailand, celebrated as Mother’s Day. Following Bhumibol’s death in 2016, their son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, ascended the throne, with Sirikit assuming the title of Queen Mother upon his coronation in 2019.
While the Thai monarchy traditionally remains apolitical, there were instances where Sirikit and other royals ventured into political spheres. Notably, Sirikit supported the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), a movement that influenced political landscapes in Thailand.
Remembered for her philanthropy and maternal persona, Sirikit’s legacy will be revered in a nation where strict laws safeguard the royal family from criticism. She is survived by her son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, and three daughters.
