Thai Mother's Day

August 12th in Thailand is the Queen's Birthday. As she is considered to be mother to all Thais, this day is also celebrated as Mother's Day.

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit was born on Friday, August 12,1932, as the eldest daughter of His Highness Prince Chandaburi Suranath and Mon Lung Bua Kitiyakara. Her Majesty was born with the royal title of Mon Rajawongse and Her name "Sirikit", which means "Glory to the Kitiyakara Family",was Given by His Majesty Fing Prajadhipok (Rama VII ). Mon Rajawongse Sirikit began her studies at Rajini School ro the Queen's School and during World War II she transferred to St. francis Xavier Convent School in Bangkok. At the end of the Second World War, her father was appointed the Thai minister to France and Denmark and full Ambassador to the United Kingdom. She thus accompanied him and continued her education in Europe here she met His Majesty King Bhumibol.

Starting a few weeks before the Queen's birthday, all buildings are covered up with Royal symbols and portraits of Her Majesty all over the Thai kingdom.

On 12 August, jasmine, symbolic of the selfless virtue of a mother who gives life to her children, is seen everywhere in Thailand. Charitable activities, food offering to monks and donations are part of the events of the day to express children's gratitiude to every mother.

As a tribute to Her Majesty's boundless contributions for the happiness of the entire population and the prosperity of the nation as a whole, August 12 is now a public holiday. We join all loyal and devoted subjects of the kingdom in wishing Her Majesty the Queen a long life of good health and happiness.