Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on October 24, 2025. Her death marks the conclusion of an era closely associated with Thailand’s modern monarchy and cultural identity. The Bureau of the Royal Household officially announced her passing, declaring a year-long period of national mourning.
Story Highlights
- Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, passes away at 93.
- A year-long national mourning period has been declared in Thailand.
- Her passing signifies the end of an era tied to Thailand’s modern monarchy.
- Queen Sirikit was the first woman in modern Thai history to serve as Regent.
Queen Sirikit’s Legacy
Queen Sirikit served as Thailand’s Queen Consort from 1950 until the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2016. She was recognized for her charitable work and efforts in cultural preservation. In 1956, she was appointed Regent, a notable event as she was the first woman in modern Thai history to hold this position. Her work included promoting rural development and handicrafts, which contributed to shaping Thailand’s cultural identity.
🇹🇭 Death of Queen Sirikit
Today the Royal Remains of HLM Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother will be transferred from the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital to the Sahathai Samakhom Pavilion at the Grand Palace.
Members of the Royal Family are expected to arrive at the Hospital… pic.twitter.com/TAhaHN0RE8
— Imperial Material ♚ (@implmaterial) October 26, 2025
Impact on Thai Society
The passing of Queen Sirikit has led to a year-long national mourning period, which includes the suspension of entertainment and celebrations. This period reflects the respect for her contributions and mirrors the national response following King Bhumibol’s death in 2016. Economically, the mourning period may temporarily affect sectors such as entertainment and tourism. However, it also provides an opportunity to focus on her legacy in cultural preservation and rural development, with initiatives like the SUPPORT Foundation expected to continue their influence.
I join the people of Thailand in mourning the passing of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. 🇹🇭🕯️
Her Majesty – widow to King Rama IX, and the world’s longest serving queen consort- passed away on 24 October at the age of 93. pic.twitter.com/hRhC5igPzR
— royal courtier (@CourtierRoyal) October 25, 2025
The Future of Thailand’s Monarchy
Queen Sirikit’s death marks the end of an era for the Thai monarchy while also underscoring the ongoing influence of the royal family. King Maha Vajiralongkorn, her son, continues to lead the nation, with the royal household overseeing the state funeral and public ceremonies. The monarchy’s symbolic authority and continuity are maintained, reinforcing its role in Thai identity. Her contributions to charitable work, cultural preservation, and societal development have left a lasting impact on Thailand.
Watch the report: Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit dies at 93
Sources:
The Royal Correspondent, October 25, 2025
Thailand mourns as Queen Mother Sirikit dies at 93 | The Independent
