Pink elephants paraded for Thailand's late queen mother
Published date: Fri, 28 Nov 2025 17:03:23 +0700Pink elephants were paraded in a tribute to Thailand's late queen mother.
The jumbos marched outside the Grand Palace in Bangkok on November 27 as more than 500 people paid their respects to Queen Sirikit.
Footage shows the 11 trained beasts, smeared in pastel pink paint to resemble 'lucky' albino elephants, stepping in unison to a booming drum rhythm as they trudged along the streets.
The late queen's portrait was placed high on the lead elephant, which was adorned in black and gold traditional caparisons.
Laithongrian Meepan, owner of the Royal Elephant Kraal Village in Ayutthaya, organised the procession.
He said: 'Her Majesty granted me an audience and gave me advice on raising elephants. We have brought the baby elephants to show Her Majesty that they obey orders.'
The death of Queen Sirikit was announced on October 25, triggering a one-year mourning period, with Thais ordered to wear black until the end of January. Her remains lay in state at the Grand Palace.
The history of elephant captivity in Thailand dates back centuries, with the jumbos being used for transportation, logging, and warfare. They were also prized in the Siamese kingdom and adorned with silk robes and bronze saddle fittings.
In more recent times, captive elephants have been primarily used for tourism and religious ceremonies, with activities such as elephant rides, trekking, and shows being popular attractions.
Details
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Bangkok, Thailand |
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27/11/2025 |
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ViralPress |
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VRP173341 |
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Duration: 02:53 |
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Rating: News safe |
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bangkok pink elephants thailand queen sirikit grand palace tribute pachyderms elephants procession royal elephant kraal village ayutthaya laithongrian meepan albino elephants thai culture mourning period elephant captivity tourism religious ceremonies traditional caparisons jungle behemoths |
