Thais remember Queen Mother Sirikit as year-long mourning period begins
Mourners filled the streets of Bangkok on Sunday to bid farewell to Queen Mother Sirikit, whose death at the age of 93 has plunged Thailand into a year of national mourning. She passed away on Friday.
Throughout the capital, people gathered with portraits of the late Queen Mother, bowing and praying as the royal procession passed. Thai flags flew at half-mast as soldiers marched in solemn tribute.
“Today I am one of her children to pay respects for our mother for Thai people, and now she is with our father up above,” said one mourner.
"Even the boss has all passed away from us. But they will never be forgotten from our heart. They will be remembered in our hearts forever," another added.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul led the nation in mourning, announcing a year-long observance for civil servants and government officials, and a 90-day period for the general public. Flags will remain at half-mast for 30 days.
Thais were encouraged to wear black or muted colours and to observe a respectful tone in public life, including concerts and public events.
Queen Sirikit, who suffered a stroke in 2012, was revered for championing women’s empowerment, rural development, and Thai craftsmanship through royal initiatives that transformed communities. Together with her late husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, she helped shape the modern Thai monarchy, earning deep affection across generations.
The Queen Mother’s passing marks an end of an era for Thailand and the start of a year-long mourning period for its transitional government.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
