Dara Rasmi

Dara Rasmi (1873–1933) was a princess of Siam (now Thailand), and a member of the Siamese Royal Family during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was the daughter of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and one of his four queens, Queen Saovabha Phongsri.

Early Life

Dara Rasmi was born on 26th June 1873 in Chiang Mai, the capital city of the Lanna Kingdom. Her father, King Chulalongkorn, was the fifth monarch of Siam under the House of Chakri, while her mother, Queen Saovabha Phongsri, was the king's principal queen consort.

Marriage and Royal Duties

In 1886, at the age of 13, Dara Rasmi was married to her half-brother, Crown Prince Vajirunhis. This marriage was arranged as part of King Chulalongkorn's efforts to unify the country. However, the Crown Prince died in 1895 before ascending to the throne.

Following the death of her husband, Dara Rasmi continued to serve the royal court in various capacities. She was known for her efforts to preserve and promote the culture of the Lanna Kingdom, particularly its traditional dances and cuisine.

Later Life and Death

In her later years, Dara Rasmi lived a relatively private life in her residence, the Dara Pirom Palace, in Chiang Mai. She passed away on 9th December 1933 at the age of 60.

Legacy

Dara Rasmi is remembered for her contributions to Thai culture and her efforts to unify the country during a period of significant political change. Her former residence, the Dara Pirom Palace, is now a museum dedicated to her life and work.