Thailand's Queen of Hearts Sirikit dies at 93

Thailand's Queen of Hearts Sirikit dies at 93

Former Thai Queen Sirikit died on October 24, 2025 at the age of 93. Sirikit, born Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara on August 12, 1932, was revered as a queen in her homeland, although she served as royal mother since the death of her husband King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) in 2016. Her birthday is celebrated as a national holiday and Mother's Day in Thailand.

Sirikit and Bhumibol married in April 1950, shortly before his coronation. The couple were considered important figures in the international aristocracy, and she was often celebrated as a style icon in fashion magazines. Vanity Fair even called her “Asia’s Jackie Kennedy.” In the 1950s and 1960s she represented the epitome of Asian grace and elegance.

Public life and retreat

During her reign as queen, which lasted until Bhumibol's death, Sirikit was involved in numerous charitable projects and took on many representative tasks. However, since a stroke in 2012, she has largely withdrawn from the public eye. In recent years, photos of her have rarely been published. Even at the coronation of her son Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) in May 2019, she was not present due to illness and, when she finally appeared in public, appeared white-haired and frail, but still elegant.

Sirikit and Bhumibol had four children and often spent time in Switzerland. Sirikit was not only queen, but also the mother of King Vajiralongkorn and had a total of twelve grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Her care and policies promoting Thai culture and history remained an important part of her legacy.

A look back

Sirikit grew up as the eldest daughter of Prince Nakkhatra Mangkala Kitiyakara and Mom Luang Bua Snidvongs. She attended various schools and completed her schooling in Great Britain. Her acquaintance with Bhumibol began when she lived in Paris, where her father was serving as ambassador. Their wedding took place at Srapathum Palace and was officiated by Queen Sri Savarindira.

It is worth mentioning that Sirikit became Regent of Thailand during her time as Queen when Bhumibol entered the monastery in 1956. This period was significant as it represents one of the longest reigns in the country's history. The royal throne in Thailand, which was almost divinely worshiped until the absolute monarchy in 1932, was shaped by the Chakri dynasty, to which Bhumibol also belonged, and that of Rama IX. up to his son Rama X.

Sirikit's memory will live on in Thailand, particularly through institutions named in her name, such as the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health and the Queen Sirikit Cup, as well as through her tireless service to society.

The loss of Sirikit represents a significant moment for many Thais, as she played a central role in Thai society and culture for decades. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of many citizens.