Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati, the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, died at age 47 [1].
The death of the princess, also known as Princess Bha, marks the end of a prolonged health crisis for the Thai royal family. As the eldest child of King Rama X, she was a prominent figure in the monarchy and a potential future queen.
The Royal Palace in Bangkok announced the death on Friday, June 12, 2024 [5], and said the princess died on Thursday, June 11, 2024 [4]. Her death follows a severe medical battle that left her unconscious for a significant period. Reports indicate she spent between more than three years [3] and nearly four years [2] in a coma.
Medical details provided in the dossier suggest her condition was the result of multiple health problems. This included a mycoplasma infection, a condition typically associated with pneumonia [6]. The infection led to the critical state that required years of medical intervention before her death.
The news has prompted nationwide mourning across Thailand. The princess had been a visible representative of the crown, and her long-term illness had been a subject of public concern throughout the region.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn's eldest daughter had been the focus of royal medical bulletins for several years. The Royal Palace's confirmation of her death concludes a period of uncertainty regarding her recovery prospects.
“Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati, the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, died at age 47”
The death of Princess Bajrakitiyabha removes a key figure from the immediate line of succession and a primary bridge between the monarchy and public service. Given her status as the eldest daughter, her passing shifts the internal dynamics of the royal house and concludes a years-long period of public speculation regarding the health of the royal family.
