Nation in Mourning: Princess Bajrakitiyabha of Thailand Passes Away at 47

Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the eldest daughter of King Vajiralongkorn of Thailand, has passed away at the age of 47, as confirmed by the Thai Royal House. Known affectionately as 'Bha', she died on Thursday afternoon at Chulalongkorn Hospital, where she had been receiving treatment for a prolonged health crisis over the past three years due to a cardiac issue that began in December 2022. The official statement revealed that the princess had been in a coma and suffered from a progressive deterioration of her health attributed to an abdominal infection. King Vajiralongkorn has issued a decree to arrange the princess's funeral with the highest honors, which will be held at the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Tragically, the princess lost consciousness on December 14, 2022, while training her dogs for a competition in Nakhon Ratchasima, approximately 250 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. Medical reports indicated that she lost consciousness due to an infection caused by mycoplasma bacteria, leading to inflammation of the heart and severe heart irregularities. In May, following extensive hospitalization, the Royal House disclosed that the princess was battling a serious infection related to inflammation of the large intestine, resulting in hypotension, arrhythmia, and blood coagulation issues. Despite the continuous and meticulous care provided by medical professionals, her health steadily declined until her passing on June 11 at 19:48 local time. Born on December 7, 1978, Bajrakitiyabha was the only child from King Vajiralongkorn's first marriage to Princess Soamsawali, a relation of the current monarch. After her father's ascension to the throne in 2016, she stepped into a more visible role within the royal family, increasing participation in ceremonies and national representations, which led to speculation about her potential as heir to the Crown. Possessing a Doctorate in Law from the University of Chicago and a degree in International Relations, the princess was educated at some of the most prestigious institutions in Thailand and England. Additionally, she held the position of Thailand's ambassador to Austria from 2012 to 2014 and represented her country at various international forums, including the United Nations and UN Women. Known for her passion for equestrian sports, Princess Bajrakitiyabha led a life that differed from many royals—discreet and singular, as she never married or had children. Her death marks a significant loss for the nation, where she made notable contributions both in her legal career and in the realm of international diplomacy. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2