Thailand: Thousands bid farewell to Princess Bajrakitiyabha

Thousands of Thais clad in black lined the streets of Bangkok on Saturday, braving oppressive heat to bid a final farewell to Princess Bajrakitiyabha. The procession, stretching 10 kilometers from the Chulalongkorn Hospital to the Grand Palace, marked the public mourning for the beloved royal, who died Thursday at age 47.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida led the royal motorcade carrying the princess's body. Thai PBS reported that the coffin was transported in the same vehicle used for the funeral of her grandfather, King Bhumibol, who died in 2016. The procession was conducted under strict security and followed a precise protocol, with dozens of police officers on duty.

“

I am sad, very sad, because Her Royal Highness was so beloved by the Thai people, known for what she has done and achieved.

"I am sad, very sad, because Her Royal Highness was so beloved by the Thai people, known for what she has done and achieved," said Pongsanguan Paranan, 63, to AFP. The princess, affectionately known as "Princess Bha" by Thais, had been hospitalized since suffering a heart attack during a training exercise with army dogs in December 2022. The palace had previously announced she was being supported by medical devices for severe infection affecting her lungs and kidneys.

This is the second period of mourning for the Thai royal family in recent months, following the death of Queen Sirikit, the King's mother, in October at age 93. The government has ordered state officials to wear black, and flags nationwide will fly at half-mast for two weeks. Details regarding the princess's burial have not yet been announced.

“

I am sad that she died, especially since I saw her pictures from her childhood. I prayed for the sick princess. I will wait here all day for her body. It is not easy for us to say goodbye.