A cherished member of a distinguished Royal family has passed away at the age of 93 due to a severe blood infection.
The former Queen of Thailand, Sirikit, who was also the mother of the current monarch King Vajiralongkorn, died on Friday at the age of 93. She was not only the mother of the reigning king but also the wife of Thailand’s longest-serving monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Their marriage lasted an impressive 66 years, establishing them as one of the longest-married Royal couples in history, similar to the enduring union of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.
The news of her passing has deeply affected the nation, with the country mourning the loss of their beloved queen.
In an official statement from the Thai Royal family, it was announced that Sirikit had passed away, shocking millions due to the immense popularity of the monarchy. Throughout the nation, portraits of Sirikit can be seen in homes and public buildings, reflecting the monarchy’s perceived semi-divine authority.
According to Al Arabiya, the palace revealed that Queen Sirikit had been battling various illnesses since her hospitalization in 2019, including a blood infection diagnosed by doctors earlier in the month. The statement indicated that “Her majesty’s condition deteriorated until Friday when she passed away at Chulalongkorn hospital at the age of 93,” as reported by the Daily Star.
Sirikit was renowned in Thai fashion during her 66-year reign as queen and devoted herself to philanthropic endeavors aimed at helping the underprivileged and disadvantaged.
She was often compared to former US First Lady Jackie Kennedy and Britain’s Princess Diana by Western media, drawing parallels in her public image and influence.
The citizens of Thailand have been left in sorrow by the news, with many pondering how the nation will navigate the future without her leadership.
Housekeeper Sasis Putthasit expressed that Sirikit’s passing would hold great significance for the Thai people, emphasizing her role as a maternal figure for the country.
Following Queen Sirikit’s demise, King Vajiralongkorn has decreed a year of national mourning for the Royal family.
Television presenters across the nation are instructed to wear black attire during news broadcasts as a mark of respect for the departed monarch.
Queen Sirikit rose to prominence when her husband ascended to the throne in 1946, guiding the country through the aftermath of World War 2.
She remained an active public figure in Thailand until King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s reign concluded in