Revered Lord Chamberlain passes away at 88

Dr Prasit Watanapa, dean of medicine at Siriraj Hospital, said Keokhwan, who had been admitted for a myocardial infarction, succumbed to heart failure at 10.02am.

Keokhwan was born on September 3, 1928, to Phraya Anurak Ratchamonthien (Kad Vajarodaya) and Thanpuying Anurak Ratchamonthien (Phua Vajarodaya). 

His twin brother, Khwankeo, is deputy to the Lord Chamberlain of the Royal Household Bureau.

He is survived by his brother, his wife, Thanpuying Pensri Vajarodaya nee ML Pensri Srithawat, and three children – Rattana Devakula na Ayutthaya, Rattawut Vajarodaya, a special affairs adviser to the Royal Household Bureau, and Vajarakit Vajarodaya, Grand Chamberlain of the Royal Household Bureau.

Keokhwan had served the Palace since April 1, 1950, as His Majesty the King’s Private Chamberlain as well as His Majesty’s personal photographer. 

He followed His Majesty across the country and abroad, capturing His Majesty’s various moments with his lens. He also managed His Majesty’s moving documentaries and films.

In 1987, he was appointed as the director of the notable Royal Chitralada Project initiated by His Majesty.

In 2009, he was named the Lord Chamberlain of the Royal Household Bureau.

Besides his duties with the Royal Family, he was also chairman of the Suntaraporn Foundation. 

For his funeral, His Majesty has graciously granted a  Buddhist urn with  for decoration, as well as traditional Thai and Western horns.

His Majesty is also sponsoring the drummers and during the royal water bathing rites.

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will represent His Majesty in performing the bathing ritual. 

She will also offer  wreaths from their Majesties the King and Queen in front of the urn.