Suriyothai was the Queen of Thailand. She was the wife of King Maha Chakraphat of Ayutthaya who reigned from 1549 to 1569. Suriyothai is considered as a Heroine of Thailand, who sacrificed her life while trying to save her husband during a battle.
King Maha Chakraphat was famous for his white elephants. He had a number of them and according to Brahminic beliefs, a monarch who had one or more white elephant was a symbol of glory and success. It is believed that King Maha Chakraphat's reign was extremely successful.
The King ascended to the throne in 1549. After just six months, he was challenged by the King of Burma to a war. The King of Burma had a personal grudge towards the King and he wanted to capture the main city, Ayutthaya, which was the capital of Siam. During those days Thailand was called Siam.
The Siamese king could not let the challenge go and as the king, Maha Chakraphat led his army in defense of the capital. During those times women were not allowed to take part in wars. But Queen Suriyothai was concerned about her husband's well being and wanted to be at his side during the battle. However, the King would not hear of it so Suriyothai disguised herself as a man and she joined her husband in the battlefield. During the battle, King Maha Chakraphat's elephant was killed and taking advantage of this Burmese king tried to kill him. However, Queen Suriyothai intercepted the attack and died in the bargain. When the Burmese King found out that he had killed a woman, he was extremely ashamed and immediately withdrew from the battle; leaving Ayutthaya to Siam.
The queen was looked upon as a heroine for sacrificing her life to save her husband's and is still venerated and revered in Thailand for her bravery.
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