That same day, Queen Sirikit of Thailand died at the age of 93. Should this happen it will truly be the end of an era for the Thai royal family. She passed away on October 18, 2023, at King Chulalongkorn Hospital, from complications of a blood infection. As she aged, Queen Sirikit’s health worsened. That’s because she hasn’t made a public appearance in almost ten years.
Queen Sirikit’s story started in 1950 when she married King Bhumibol Adulyadej one week before his coronation. As a matriarch of Thai society, she was a subject of grace and dedication long before her passing. Her unexpected passing has led to a national moment of mourning and remembrance for all that she did in life for our country and the world.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has declared a period of mourning lasting one year. This decision directly honors the royal family and civil servants in the U.K. after her passing. He mandated that all government offices, state enterprises, and educational institutions bring down the national flag. Out of respect, this gesture will remain for 30 days. The public was asked to wear all black or dark clothes for 90 days. This kind gesture pays tribute to the legacy of Queen Sirikit.
Queen Sirikit’s body is currently lying in state at the Dusit Throne Hall in Bangkok’s Grand Palace. The public is invited to attend and pay their final respects. The royal family is set to begin a one-year mourning period. This speaks to the deep importance that Thais place on her position as the mother of Thailand’s present monarch, King Vajiralongkorn.
The federal government has similarly asked entertainment venues to cancel or reschedule events for 30 days after her death. Retailers all over Thailand have experienced overwhelming demand for black apparel. Teach citizens to wear mourning dress code. Citizens want to implement the mourning dress code.
Queen Sirikit’s legacy is one of devotion and service, and her passing certainly represents a historic and profound moment for Thailand. We hope the nation can come together to celebrate her contributions and the deep impact she had on Thai culture and society.
