### Thailand Enters a Year of Mourning Following the Death of Queen Sirikit The Kingdom of Thailand is currently observing a profound period of mourning following the death of Queen Sirikit, the beloved Queen Mother, who passed away at the age of 93 on October 24, 2025. Her death has prompted a nationwide call for citizens to wear traditional mourning colors—black or white—for a duration of 90 days, reflecting the deep respect and love the Thai people hold for her. This mourning period is marked by a significant surge in demand for black clothing, as vendors across the country scramble to meet the needs of the grieving public [https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3331143/thai-vendors-go-red-sell-mourning-clothes-my-time-pay-back][https://laotiantimes.com/2025/11/01/in-the-black-the-business-of-mourning-thailands-queen-mother]. ### Structure of the Mourning Response 1. **Public Mourning and Attire**: The Thai government has officially urged citizens to don black or white clothing as a sign of respect during the mourning period. This has led to a significant increase in sales of black garments, reminiscent of the mourning period following King Bhumibol Adulyadej's death in 2016 [https://indianexpress.com/article/world/thailand-black-clothing-demand-national-mourning-queen-mother-10335296][https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3128921/thais-mourning-late-queen-mother-spark-run-on-black-clothes]. 2. **Cultural Significance**: Queen Sirikit was a pivotal figure in Thai society, known for her dedication to rural development and cultural preservation. Her passing has not only affected the royal family but has also resonated deeply with the Thai populace, who view her as a maternal figure [https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a69165657/queen-sirikit-thailand-death-obituary][https://www.expatgo.com/my/2025/10/27/thailand-mourns-the-passing-of-queen-mother-sirikit]. 3. **Economic Impact**: The demand for mourning attire has created a bustling market for black clothing, with vendors reporting sales levels not seen since previous national mourning periods. This economic activity highlights the intersection of cultural practices and commerce in Thailand [https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/in-the-black-the-business-of-mourning-thailands-queen-mother][https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3331143/thai-vendors-go-red-sell-mourning-clothes-my-time-pay-back]. 4. **Official Observances**: The Thai government has organized various official events to honor Queen Sirikit, including a year-long funeral ceremony where her remains will lie in state at the Grand Palace. This reflects the high regard in which she was held and the importance of royal traditions in Thai culture [https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3126382/pm-remembers-queen-mothers-devotion-to-thais][https://www.africannewsagency.com/thailand-begins-year-long-funeral-ceremony-for-former-queen-sirikit]. ### Summary of Findings **Key Conclusions**: 1. **National Mourning**: Thailand is in a state of mourning for Queen Sirikit, with citizens encouraged to wear black or white for 90 days, reflecting the deep respect for her legacy. 2. **Cultural and Economic Response**: The surge in demand for black clothing illustrates the cultural significance of mourning practices and their economic implications for local vendors. 3. **Official Commemorations**: The government is actively organizing events to honor the Queen Mother, emphasizing the importance of royal traditions in Thai society. This period of mourning not only signifies the loss of a beloved figure but also highlights the cultural fabric of Thailand, where royal figures are deeply intertwined with national identity and public sentiment [https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3126450/thousands-gather-at-chulalongkorn-hospital-to-honour-queen-sirikit][https://www.thedailystar.net/news/asia/news/thailands-queen-mother-sirikit-dies-93-4018871].