Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, 88, the world's longest-reigning monarch, died after a 70-year rule. In recent years, he made few public appearances due to his ill-health.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej was held in great reverence by the people of Thailand. He was also looked upon by the people to intervene in times of high tension.
The government of Thailand has announced a mourning period of one year for the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, reports Bangkok Post, a news website that has gone black and white to mourn the king's death.
The report quoted Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha saying, "The nation has experienced its greatest sorrow in a lifetime on Oct 13 and will have a new king under its traditions," Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha announced on Thursday evening.
Although Prince Vajiralongkorn, the king's 63-year-old son will be the new king, according to reports, he never achieved the esteem that the king and Queen Sirikit enjoyed. The prince will also inherit properties worth exceeding 35 billion dollars.
"His Majesty the King brought people from their hopelessness to their determination, security and courage to cope with obstacles," the Prime Minister was quoted saying by Post.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, Bengal chief minister Mamta Banerjee and minister of state Kiren Rijiju were among the hundreds of people who took to Twitter to express their condolences over the king's death.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej or Rama 9, was widely revered by his people. My thoughts are with his countless well-wishers & family.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 13, 2016
People of India and I join the people of Thailand in grieving the loss of one of the tallest leaders of our times, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 13, 2016
Saddened by the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. A leader deeply loved & admired by his people,his passing is a great loss for Thailand
— Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) October 13, 2016
My condolences to the people of Thailand on the passing away of His Royal Highness Bhumibol Adulyadej, King of Thailand. Rest in Peace
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) October 13, 2016
Tragedy for the world. King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand was a symbol of peace, love & compassion. May Lord Buddha bless the departed soul https://t.co/02ZYR6UnFT
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) October 13, 2016
Condolences to the people of #Thailand on the demise of their King, HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) October 13, 2016
Condolences on demise of Thailand's revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej 'Rama-9'. Om Shanti Om.
— Arvind Gupta (@buzzindelhi) October 13, 2016