Royal tributes honour Princess Bajrakitiyabha's life and memory
Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya and Princess Siribha Chudabhorn have shared personal memories of the late Princess Bajrakitiyabha, recalling her strength, kindness and enduring impact on their lives.
"Sitting alone feels lonely," Princess Sirivannavari, the late princess's half-sister, wrote, adding that she still lacks the courage to open their unfinished chat messages.
Describing Princess Bajrakitiyabha as "the wind beneath her wings", she said she will remember her forever.
She also recalled childhood memories, family travels and their close relationship.
"I miss the times when we sat side by side, constantly talking and consulting each other about everything, sharing our worries and updating one another on our lives," she said.
She recalled the times when they accompanied their father, HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn, at royal ceremonies.
"I was always happy whenever I walked behind Phi Bha. We would sit together, with our father on the other side, and we would secretly tease him and joke around… There was even a period when we sat together catching Pokémon in the Grand Palace. You remember that, don't you?"
Princess Sirivannavari wrote, "Today, I am sitting alone. I feel lonely and cold. Memories of those days keep coming back — the times we spent together."
She also wrote about a trip through the cities of Italy, recalling "Father would drive, Phi Bha would be the navigator and I would sit in the back eating snacks and passing supplies forward."
The late princess was described as an exceptionally capable woman, strong, determined and decisive.
"She gave her all to everything in life and possessed extraordinary endurance. She excelled in her studies, excelled in whatever she set out to do, and was highly skilled in Thai classical music, especially the chakhe."
The late princess was her inspiration in equestrian sports, Princess Sirivannavari said, adding that she would continue to train with dedication and determination and take the best possible care of the Royal Mounted Unit.
Meanwhile, Princess Siribha Chudabhorn, the late princess's cousin, also shared a heartfelt tribute.
"Now I know how painful and difficult it is to live without you," she wrote.
"Nobody talks about the pain of letting go, the sleepless nights, skipped meals, fake smiles, staring at the ceiling at 3am and crying yourself to sleep, while learning how to live without someone you never wanted to lose."
Princess Siribha Chudabhorn is the daughter of Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana, the King's youngest sister.