Thailand Mourns the Passing of Queen Mother Sirikit
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Bangkok, thailand – october 25, 2025 08:15 ICT – Queen Sirikit, the beloved Queen Mother of Thailand, has died, marking the end of an era for the nation. She was 90 years old. The passing of Queen Sirikit, consort to the late King bhumibol Adulyadej, is deeply mourned by Thais across the country and around the world.
Queen Sirikit’s decades-long dedication to improving the lives of Thailand’s rural population, coupled with her staunch support for the monarchy, cemented her status as a revered figure. Her death follows the passing of King bhumibol in 2016, and leaves a meaningful void in the hearts of many. the nation now enters a period of mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and public events scaled back as a mark of respect.Her son, King maha Vajiralongkorn, currently reigns.
A Royal Marriage and Coronation
Born Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara on August 12, 1932, she married then-Prince bhumibol Adulyadej in 1950. The couple’s coronation ceremony later that same year saw them both pledge to reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese (Thai) people.
They had four children: current King Maha Vajiralongkorn, and princesses Ubolratana, Sirindhorn and Chulabhorn.
In their early years as a royal couple, King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit undertook numerous international trips as goodwill ambassadors, establishing strong relationships with global leaders.
Focus on Thailand’s Rural Communities
By the early 1970s, the King and Queen shifted their focus to addressing Thailand’s internal challenges, including widespread rural poverty, the opium trade affecting hill tribes, and a growing communist insurgency. Queen Sirikit,known for her impeccable style,also embraced visiting remote villages,where she was affectionately called daughter
by older women.
Thousands of Thai citizens sought her assistance with issues ranging from personal disputes to health concerns, and the Queen personally intervened in many cases. Despite some criticism regarding palace affairs and her lifestyle in Bangkok, her popularity remained strong in rural areas.
In a 1979 interview with The Associated Press, she explained, Misunderstandings arise between people in rural areas and the rich, so-called civilized people in Bangkok.People in rural Thailand say they are neglected, and we try to fill that gap by staying with them in remote areas.
Championing Development and Preservation
Royal development projects flourished throughout Thailand, many initiated and overseen directly by the Queen. In 1976, she established the SUPPORT foundation, wich provided training to thousands of villagers in traditional thai crafts such as silk-weaving, jewelry-making, painting, and ceramics.
Her commitment to conservation extended to establishing wildlife breeding centers, open zoos,
and hatcheries dedicated to saving endangered sea turtles. The Forest Loves Water and Little House in the forest projects highlighted the economic benefits of preserving forests and water resources.
Queen Sirikit firmly believed in the essential role of the monarchy in Thailand, stating in the 1979 AP interview, There are some in the universities who think the monarchy is obsolete. But I think Thailand needs an understanding monarch. At the call, ‘The king is coming,’ thousands will gather. The mere word king has something magic in it. It is fantastic.
key Dates and Initiatives
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 1932 | Queen Sirikit born |
| 1950 | Marriage to King Bhumibol Adulyadej |
| 1950 | Coronation |
| 1976 | Establishment of SUPPORT Foundation |
| 1979 | Interview with The Associated Press |
| 2016 | King Bhumibol Adulyadej passes away |
| 2025 | Queen Sirikit passes away |
Did You Know?
Queen Sirikit’s SUPPORT foundation has been instrumental in preserving and promoting Thailand’s rich cultural heritage through traditional crafts, providing economic opportunities for countless villagers.
Pro tip:
To learn more about the Thai monarchy and its role in national development, visit the official website of the Royal Thai Embassy: https://thaiembdc.org/
The passing of Queen Sirikit marks a profound loss for Thailand. Her legacy of compassion, dedication, and commitment to her people will continue to inspire generations to come.
What are your fondest memories of Queen Sirikit? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Please share this article to honor her memory and inform others about her remarkable life.
queen Sirikit: A Lasting Legacy
Queen Sirikit’s influence extended far beyond her charitable work. She played a crucial role in modernizing Thailand’s image on the world stage, fostering international relations, and promoting a sense of national unity. Her emphasis on lasting development and cultural preservation remains highly relevant today, as Thailand navigates the challenges of globalization and environmental change. The monarchy in Thailand, while evolving, continues to be a central institution, and Queen Sirikit’s contributions have shaped its role for decades to come.
Frequently Asked questions about Queen Sirikit
What was queen Sirikit known for?
Queen Sirikit was renowned for her dedication to improving the lives of rural Thais, promoting traditional crafts through the SUPPORT foundation, and her commitment to environmental conservation.
When did Queen Sirikit become Queen of Thailand?
Queen Sirikit became Queen of Thailand in 1950 upon her marriage to King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and was formally crowned later that same year.
What is the SUPPORT foundation?
The SUPPORT foundation, established by queen Sirikit in 1976, provides training and support to rural thai villagers in traditional crafts, helping them generate income and preserve their cultural heritage.
What was Queen Sirikit’s view on the monarchy?
Queen Sirikit believed the monarchy was a vital institution in Thailand, providing stability and guidance to the nation.
How did Queen Sirikit address rural poverty in Thailand?
Queen Sirikit and King Bhumibol Adulyadej initiated numerous royal development projects aimed at alleviating rural poverty, improving healthcare, and promoting sustainable agriculture.
