A prominent member of a revered Royal family has recently passed away at the age of 93 due to a severe blood infection.
The late Queen of Thailand, Sirikit, who was the mother of the current monarch King Vajiralongkorn, breathed her last on Friday (October 24). She was not only the mother of the reigning king but also the spouse of Thailand’s longest-serving monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Their marriage endured for an impressive 66 years, setting a historical record as one of the longest-married Royal couples, similar to the longevity of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s union.
The news of her demise has reverberated throughout the nation, prompting a wave of mourning as the country mourns the loss of their beloved queen.
In an official statement released by the Thai Royal family, it was confirmed that Queen Sirikit had passed away, stunning millions due to the monarchy’s immense popularity. Portraits of Sirikit can be seen adorning walls in homes and public buildings across the country, 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 severe blood infection diagnosed earlier this month. The statement indicated that “Her majesty’s condition deteriorated until Friday when she passed away at Chulalongkorn hospital at age 93,” as reported by the Daily Star.
Throughout her 66-year reign as queen, Sirikit was a prominent figure in Thai fashion and dedicated herself to charitable endeavors, supporting the underprivileged and disadvantaged.
She drew comparisons in Western media to former US First Lady Jackie Kennedy and Britain’s Princess Diana, highlighting her influence and elegance.
The citizens of Thailand have been left in sorrow by the announcement, with many pondering the nation’s future without her guiding presence.
Housekeeper Sasis Putthasit expressed on Saturday morning (October 25) that Sirikit’s passing marks a significant moment for the Thai people.
“I was aware of her declining health, considering her age in the 90s, but I did not anticipate today to be the day,” Sasis shared. “I am saddened as she symbolized a motherly figure for the country, and now she is no longer with us.”
Following Queen Sirikit’s passing, King Vajiralongkorn has decreed a year of national mourning for the Royal family.
Television presenters nationwide have been instructed to wear black attire during news broadcasts as a mark of respect for the departed monarch.
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