In memory of the Princess Mother
The beloved Somdet Ya is remembered in a glowing exhibition on her philosophy and work
AN EXHIBITION keeping alive the memory of the beloved Princess Mother – Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Boromarajajonani – was on view last week in Siam Paragon’s Lifestyle Hall.
Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn officially opened the show, mounted for the 19th consecutive year by Siam Piwat in association with the Mae Fah Luang Foundation under Royal Patronage and Thai Beverage.
Somdet Ya, as she was affectionately known, the mother of Their Majesties Kings Bhumipol and Ananda, died 20 years ago, on July 18, 1995. But, thanks to the immeasurable kindness she showed to ordinary citizens throughout her life and her contributions to the nation’s development, healthcare, social welfare, education, conservation and even sports, she is never going to be forgotten.
The exhibition “In Remembrance of Somdet Ya” also marked the birthday of this esteemed personage, who is often referred to as “the Royal Grandmother”. It had as its theme “20 Years … Still in Our Memory” and presented details of her duties, character traits and demeanour, recalling memorable events from her lifetime.
The “In Remembrance” segment of the show recapped the history of the exhibition itself since its inauguration in 1996. The section “Independence – Letting Go” explained her long-term vision and philosophy, which embraced the concept of “letting go” – yielding to the inevitability of the life-and-death cycle and appreciating that “Time is valuable”. “Slow Life” examined the guidelines Somdet Ya adopted in life – simplicity and sufficiency.
“Green Living” reflected on her love of nature, which extended to frequent strolls in the woods, however remote the location, and her participation in government forest plantings. It was the Princess Mother who conceived the Doi Tung Development Project.
The section “Care” illustrated her readiness to take charge of the people’s wellbeing. She worked hard to improve the fundamental standard of living in terms of income, medical care and education, including vocational training. The Princess Mother established the Medical Volunteer Foundation to ensure that people in far-flung areas would receive needed care indiscriminate of status or background.
“Value Added” demonstrated how events in history shaped Somdet Ya’s attitude toward economics. World War I took place during the reign of King Rama VI, political upheaval under Rama VII and World War II while her elder son was on the throne as Rama VIII. The Princess Mother made a study of monetary policy and developed a deep understanding of savings, supply and demand, increasing the value of items and services, and sustainable investment.
The exhibition was augmented by a DIY workshop at which people could learn to make a canvas bag and bookmark, two of the Royal Grandmother’s favourite handicrafts.
