Photo: AFP / Getty Images
Excitement in Thailand
In her 62-year marriage, she did not even miss her husband's side.
Long live the king! More than a hundred thousand people came to the Chitralada Palace in Bangkok's historic center last week to congratulate their beloved and deeply revered King Bhumibol on his birthday .
85 years has become Thailand's ruler. For 66 years, he has ruled the land of smiles, making him the longest serving ruler in the world. But he is sick and frail, shows only very rarely.
King Bhumibol has been living in the hospital for years, having only had a slight cerebral hemorrhage in July. The happier his people were now to see him on the palace balcony. In the circle of his whole family. But without his beloved queen.
Where was Sirikit ? It was missing for the first time on the king's birthday . This is more than unusual! The beautiful monarch, who has been married to Bhumibol for 62 years, is not only his closest confidante, but also his representative.
Since May she has not noticed any official date. Not even on her eightieth birthday on August 12 was she seen in public. "I've heard that she should be very ill, " reveals nobility expert Jürgen Worlitz, who knows the Queen well, she was allowed to visit a few years ago in Bangkok.
In Thailand, people are worried about Sirikit. The people worship her, worshiping her almost like a goddess. Two years ago, the queen had to go to hospital. What she suffered was kept secret until today.
Now, the Thai people pray not only for their seriously ill king, but also for the queen. The fear of losing her suddenly is very great.
