Thailand's former queen, Sirikit, has passed away at the ripe age of 93. The news comes as a shock to many, as the beloved monarch had been battling various health issues in recent years. According to reports from the Thai Royal Household Bureau, Queen Sirikit died peacefully at a Bangkok hospital on Friday at 21:21 local time (14:21 GMT).
For over six decades, Queen Sirikit was married to Thailand's longest-reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away in 2016. The couple's marriage was marked by numerous high-profile diplomatic events and royal tours around the globe, including meetings with prominent figures such as US President Dwight Eisenhower and Elvis Presley.
Throughout her reign, Queen Sirikit was seen as a style icon, frequently making international best-dressed lists. However, she also faced scrutiny for her adherence to strict lese-majeste laws, which prohibit insult of the monarchy.
As an integral figure in Thai society, Queen Sirikit's birthday, August 12th, has been marked as Mother's Day since 1976. The country will now observe a year of mourning following her passing.
The Thai royal family has announced plans to hold a royal funeral for Queen Sirikit, with her body set to lie in state at the Grand Palace's Dusit Thorne Hall in Bangkok.
For over six decades, Queen Sirikit was married to Thailand's longest-reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away in 2016. The couple's marriage was marked by numerous high-profile diplomatic events and royal tours around the globe, including meetings with prominent figures such as US President Dwight Eisenhower and Elvis Presley.
Throughout her reign, Queen Sirikit was seen as a style icon, frequently making international best-dressed lists. However, she also faced scrutiny for her adherence to strict lese-majeste laws, which prohibit insult of the monarchy.
As an integral figure in Thai society, Queen Sirikit's birthday, August 12th, has been marked as Mother's Day since 1976. The country will now observe a year of mourning following her passing.
The Thai royal family has announced plans to hold a royal funeral for Queen Sirikit, with her body set to lie in state at the Grand Palace's Dusit Thorne Hall in Bangkok.