In Thai culture, colour holds deep significance, representing days of the week, and symbolising religious beliefs, and respect for the monarchy.

On August 12, Thailand celebrates the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. Each day of the week is associated with a particular colour, and light blue is the colour for Friday – the day Her Majesty Queen Sirikit was born.

Light blue has become a symbol of loyalty and respect for the Queen Mother, and during the celebrations of her birthday, which is also Mother’s Day in Thailand, many public spaces are awash in light blue. The Thais also proudly wear the colour blue and give jasmine flowers on 12 August, to show gratitude and celebrate the importance of motherhood.