Thailand’s princess dead at 47 after three years in coma: ‘Immeasurable grief’

The Bureau of the Royal Household confirmed that Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol has passed away at the age of 47. Her death marks the end of a long struggle, as the royal had been receiving medical care since falling unconscious due to an illness three years ago.

A Nation in Mourning

In a televised address reported by 205focus.com, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed the collective heartbreak of the country. "This loss is not merely bad news announced to the people, but an immeasurable grief in the hearts of the entire nation," he stated. The Prime Minister lauded the princess as a "pride of Thailand," emphasizing that her dedication to justice, kindness, and equality will serve as a lasting moral legacy for future generations.

Remembering the Princess

Following the announcement, mourners gathered at the atrium of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, where the princess had been under treatment. Many supporters held photographs of her, reflecting on a life of public service. One supporter, Pattamaporn Kaewkityakorn, who had kept vigil at the hospital, shared her shock and sorrow, admitting that she had held out hope for a miracle despite knowing the severity of the princess's condition.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s health challenges began in December 2022 when she fell unconscious while training dogs for an army exhibition. Palace officials later identified the cause as a mycoplasma infection, which is a type of bacterial infection typically linked to pneumonia.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.