If you look around Thailand today, you’ll see black and white everywhere. Flags at half-mast. A shared sadness filling the air.
On October 24th, the nation marked the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.
The day was not entirely unexpected, yet it still came as a shock. The nation now finds itself in deep mourning. Thai people and businesses, both here and abroad, have adjusted their surroundings and behavior to reflect respect and grief. Public offices, private companies, television networks, and social media accounts have turned monochrome, offering tributes that reflect the collective sorrow of the Thai people.
Remembering the Queen Mother Through Her Legacy
In Thailand’s constitutional monarchy, there are few words that can capture the reverence Thais feel toward their King and Queen. Queen Sirikit was more than a royal consort. She was the nurturing heart of the nation, lovingly called by many Thais as the Mother of the Land.
Throughout the reign of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), the Queen Mother played a vital role in strengthening the monarchy, building a public image of compassion, warmth, and dignity. Her royal projects provided livelihoods for millions, empowering communities and creating opportunities for education and craftsmanship.
Among her greatest contributions was her dedication to traditional arts. Through the SUPPORT Foundation, she helped preserve Thai handicrafts while creating jobs for rural families. What began as a royal initiative became a lifeline for countless households, turning cultural heritage into economic opportunity. She gave people not just jobs, but dignity and skills to sustain themselves.
A Queen on the World Stage
The Queen Mother was beloved at home and admired around the world. In many ways, she embodied what we now call soft power. Her grace and modernity captivated international audiences, and her presence elevated Thailand’s image globally.
Whenever she traveled abroad, she wore elegant gowns made from Thai silk, proudly showcasing the beauty of our national fabric. Her collaboration with French couturier Pierre Balmain transformed Thai silk into a symbol of sophistication and national pride. Through her poise and cultural awareness, she became both a fashion icon and a cultural ambassador, bridging tradition and modernity in a way that made Thailand known and respected worldwide.
Mourning and Conduct During This Time
During this mourning period, Thais are encouraged to wear black or white, the colors of mourning and purity. Many festive events and celebrations have been postponed or toned down.
This is not a law but a request for cooperation. It’s not meant to suppress happiness, only to encourage sensitivity during a time of national grief. Music can still be played, concerts can still be held, but the tone and atmosphere should reflect respect for the period of mourning, allowing those who grieve to do so in peace.
Some younger people have voiced concern, fearing this could dampen Thailand’s lively tourism and entertainment culture. But it’s important to understand that the mourning period isn’t about sadness alone. It’s about unity, gratitude, and reflection. A time for Thais to pause and honor a figure who gave so much to the nation.
Why the Queen Mother Mattered to the Thai People
The love Thai people have for the Queen Mother cannot easily be put into words. For many, she represented the ideal of motherly devotion and sacrifice. Through her projects, she helped the poor, uplifted women, and preserved the identity of Thai craftsmanship.
Some Thais have journeyed hundreds of kilometers to the capital to pay their final respects. One story that touched many hearts was of a family walking over 600 kilometers from their home to the palace in Bangkok. An act of pure love and loyalty.
For those of us in modern times who might see monarchy as distant or outdated in an age of equality, the love people have for Her Majesty goes beyond institution. It’s personal. It’s profound. It’s more than words can capture.
Understanding the 30-Day Mourning Period
There has been some confusion about the 30-day mourning period. Officially, this applies to government officials and those working under royal institutions. The general public is not required by law to follow these guidelines, but they are encouraged to cooperate and show respect in any way they can, whether through clothing, conduct, or participation in local ceremonies.
For Foreigners in Thailand
For foreigners living in or visiting Thailand, this period may seem unusual, but it reflects the deep bond between Thai people and the monarchy. The best way to show respect is simple. Dress modestly in subdued colors. Speak softly in public. Avoid overly festive or noisy gatherings. Even small gestures like pausing to observe tributes or offering condolences carry great meaning.
Thais don’t expect perfection, only understanding. Respect, even when quiet or symbolic, goes a long way. But it’s not mandatory, just appreciated.
A Final Farewell
Right now, every Thai person is mourning a figure who dedicated herself to the nation, to the people, and to Thai identity. She brought modernity to Thailand while preserving what made us uniquely Thai. Her legacy will continue for generations.
Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire compassion, creativity, and unity. May her grace and dedication continue to guide us, and may her memory remain forever in the hearts of the Thai people.
This article is dedicated, with love and respect, to Her Majesty the Queen Mother.
Worawee Saikhum is a Chiang Mai–based writer and content creator currently studying Integrated Journalism at Chiang Mai University. With a strong foundation in research and storytelling, he explores a wide range of topics through a clear, structured lens. Outside of writing, Worawee is passionate about music — particularly classical and vocal performance — which continues to shape his creative rhythm and sense of narrative.
