Commemorating the 166th Birth Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana, the Royal Consort of King Rama V
From a Revered Royal Name to “Suan Sunandha”: An Educational Institution Preserving a Royal Legacy for Eternity
Tracing the Royal Life of Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana, the First Royal Consort of King Rama V, Whose Name Inspired “Suan Sunandha”
Every year, November 10 holds profound significance for the Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University community as it marks the birth anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana, the Royal Consort of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V), whose revered name became the inspiration for “Suan Sunandha.”
Although more than a century has passed, Her Majesty’s name and royal legacy continue to be remembered and honored through the history, arts, culture, and educational mission of Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University.
???? Historical Insight 1: A Royal Princess of King Rama IV
Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana was born on Saturday, November 10, 1860, at the Grand Palace in Bangkok. She was the 50th royal daughter of His Majesty King Mongkut (King Rama IV) and Her Majesty Queen Piyamavadi Sri Bajarindra Mata, formerly known as Chao Chom Manda Piam.
At birth, she was bestowed the royal title of Princess Sunandha Kumariratana. She was also the elder sister of Her Majesty Queen Savang Vadhana, the Queen Grandmother, and Her Majesty Queen Saovabha Phongsri, the Queen Mother, who shared the same royal parents.
Her Majesty spent her early years within the Grand Palace, where she was raised amid the refined traditions, customs, and cultural heritage of the Siamese royal court.
???? Historical Insight 2: The First Royal Consort of King Rama V
As she reached adulthood, Princess Sunandha Kumariratana became a royal consort of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) and was recognized as his first principal royal consort.
Their daughter was Her Royal Highness Princess Kannabhorn Bejaratana.
Tragically, on May 31, 1880, a devastating accident occurred when the royal barge carrying Her Majesty and her daughter capsized in the Chao Phraya River near Bang Phut, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi Province, while traveling to Bang Pa-In Palace.
Both Her Majesty and her daughter lost their lives in the accident. Her Majesty was only 19 years old.
The tragedy became one of the most sorrowful events in the history of the Siamese royal court and left a lasting impression on the nation's historical memory.
???? Historical Insight 3: Did You Know? The Name “Suan Sunandha” Originated from Her Majesty’s Royal Name
One of the most meaningful aspects of Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University's heritage is the origin of its name, which is directly connected to Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana.
During the reign of King Chulalongkorn, His Majesty commissioned the development of a royal garden within the Dusit Palace grounds as a peaceful retreat surrounded by beautiful flowering plants, fruit trees, and lush greenery.
The garden was given the name “Suan Sunandha,” a name associated with the celestial garden of Indra, known as “Sunandha Garden,” as well as the royal name of Queen Sunandha Kumariratana.
Thus, “Suan Sunandha” represents far more than a geographical location. It serves as a royal memorial symbolizing affection, remembrance, and an enduring connection to Her Majesty across generations.
???? Historical Insight 4: Her Majesty Never Resided at Suan Sunandha
An intriguing historical fact that many people may not know is that Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana never actually resided at Suan Sunandha.
Her Majesty passed away in 1880, before the royal garden was established.
Nevertheless, her royal name was immortalized through the naming of this historic site, which continues to preserve her memory to the present day.
This remarkable historical connection gives “Suan Sunandha” a significance far beyond that of an educational institution's name. It reflects the deep historical roots of the Thai monarchy and the cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations.
???? Historical Insight 5: From Royal Grounds to a Distinguished Educational Institution
Following the political transformation of Thailand in 1932, the former royal grounds of Suan Sunandha gradually underwent significant changes in their purpose and function.
The government subsequently approved the use of the area for educational purposes, leading to the establishment of “Suan Sunandha Wittayalai School,” while preserving the historic name of the royal garden.
Over the decades, the institution continued to develop and expand its educational mission, evolving through several important stages:
- Suan Sunandha Teachers College
- Suan Sunandha Rajabhat Institute
- Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
In 2004, the institution was officially elevated to university status under the name “S