A Doubly Symbolic Celebration

Queen Sirikit’s Birthday and Mother’s Day in Thailand

August 12th holds a special place in the hearts of the Thai people. It’s a day when two cherished celebrations intertwine: the birthday of the deeply revered Queen Sirikit and Mother’s Day, a time for love and gratitude.

For days now, the country has been adorned in blue, the symbolic color of the Queen’s birth. Flags flutter in the breeze, while portraits of Her Majesty, wife of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, grace official buildings, businesses, and streets. Everywhere, preparations are underway for this doubly symbolic event.

On August 12th, every corner of the kingdom will come alive with festivities. Solemn ceremonies, imbued with respect and admiration for the Queen, will alternate with concerts, shows, and popular entertainment, creating a joyous and convivial atmosphere.

For this day is also a time to celebrate mothers. Families and friends gather, children present their “Mae” with carefully chosen or lovingly crafted gifts. The air is filled with the scent of jasmine, a symbol of purity and maternal love, while “Mom” t-shirts are proudly worn by children of all ages.

The association of these two celebrations is no coincidence. Queen Sirikit, through her dedication to her people, embodies the quintessential mother figure. Her unwavering commitment to education, health, culture, and her work with disadvantaged communities have earned her the title of “Mother of All Thais”—a testament to the deep affection and immense respect she commands.

The history of Mother’s Day in Thailand is a fascinating story in itself. Introduced tentatively in the mid-20th century, it initially struggled to find its place in the cultural landscape. It was finally in 1976, under the impetus of the National Council of Social Welfare and with the support of the Royal Palace, that August 12th, Queen Sirikit’s birthday, was officially declared “Mother’s Day.”

This judicious choice sealed the symbolic link between the Queen and the mother figure. The publication the following year of a book entitled “The Mother of All Thais” further solidified this image and served as a reminder of the Queen’s countless acts of service for the well-being of her people.

Thus, every August 12th, Thailand celebrates with fervor and emotion two emblematic figures: Queen Sirikit, a symbol of devotion and compassion, and all mothers, the essential pillars of Thai society.