Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, renowned for her elegance and charm that revitalized the country’s monarchy post World War II, and at times delved into politics, has passed away at the age of 93, as announced by the Thai Royal Household bureau on Saturday. Following a stroke in 2012, Sirikit had retreated from public appearances.
A pivotal figure in Thai history, Sirikit was a steadfast companion to her husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who held the throne for an unprecedented 70 years since 1946. The royal couple endeared themselves to the nation through their philanthropic endeavors, and on international trips, Sirikit captivated global media with her grace and fashion sense.
Born in 1932 during Thailand’s transition to a constitutional monarchy, Sirikit Kitiyakara, daughter of the Thai ambassador to France, enjoyed a privileged upbringing. Her path crossed with Bhumibol in Paris, where they bonded over shared experiences abroad. Despite initial misgivings, their relationship blossomed, culminating in marriage in Thailand in 1950.
Sirikit’s influence extended beyond fashion as she collaborated with Pierre Balmain to promote Thai silk, fostering the revival of the country’s silk industry. Together with the king, she championed development initiatives for rural communities, showcased nightly on the Royal Bulletin.
In recognition of her contributions, her birthday was declared Mother’s Day and a national holiday in Thailand in 1976, underscoring her revered status. Following Bhumibol’s passing in 2016, their son 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, Sirikit occasionally engaged in political undertakings, notably aligning with the People’s Alliance for Democracy movement. Despite political entanglements, she will be commemorated for her humanitarian efforts and maternal persona. In Thailand, where criticism of the royal family is curtailed by strict laws, her demise will be met with solemnity.
Sirikit is survived by her son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, and three daughters.