Here are 2 famous musicians from Thailand died at 53:
Panna Rittikrai (February 17, 1961 Khon Kaen Province-July 20, 2014 Bangkok) a.k.a. Punna Litkrai, Panna Ritthikrai or Krittiya Lardphanna was a Thai screenwriter, film director, actor, film producer and stunt performer. His children are Kritsana Lardphanna and Krishna Lardphanna.
Panna Rittikrai is best known for his work as a filmmaker in the Thai martial arts genre, and is credited with playing a significant role in bringing the genre to global prominence. He co-founded the martial arts film studio Muay Thai Stunt, which provided training and support for many of the stars of the genre. Rittikrai was known for performing and choreographing his own stunts, often using low budgets and guerrilla-style tactics to create impressive action scenes. He collaborated frequently with actor Tony Jaa, with whom he worked on the Ong-Bak and Tom Yum Goong series of films. Rittikrai's legacy in the film world includes inspiring a new generation of martial arts filmmakers and performers, and his name is often mentioned alongside other legends of the genre such as Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan.
Before becoming involved in the film industry, Panna Rittikrai was a martial arts trainer in Thailand. He began his career in the film industry as a stuntman in the 1970s and performed stunts in over 50 films before transitioning to writing, directing, and producing. Rittikrai's breakthrough came in 2003 with the release of Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior, which he co-wrote and choreographed. The success of the film helped to popularize the Thai martial arts genre, and it earned critical acclaim and a cult following around the world.
Rittikrai's other notable works as a filmmaker include the films Born to Fight, Bangkok Knockout, and Vengeance of an Assassin, among others. He was both a pioneer and a master of the Thai martial arts film genre, and his work had a significant impact on action cinema worldwide. Despite his success as a filmmaker, Rittikrai remained humble and focused on providing opportunities for younger generations of actors and filmmakers.
Apart from his work in the film industry, Rittikrai was also an advocate for animal rights and worked with the Thai Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. He was recognized for his contributions to the film industry and received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Golden Kinnaree Award at the Bangkok International Film Festival in 2011.
In addition to his work in the Thai martial arts film genre, Panna Rittikrai also made a significant impact on the global film industry through his innovative use of low-budget filmmaking techniques. He was known for utilizing unconventional approaches to filming action scenes, such as using everyday objects as weapons, and incorporating elements of Thai culture and tradition into his films. Rittikrai was also known for his commitment to promoting Thai cinema and providing opportunities for up-and-coming filmmakers. He founded the Panna Rittikrai Film Festival to showcase emerging talent in the Thai film industry. Despite his success and influence, Rittikrai remained grounded and committed to his craft, always striving to push boundaries and enhance his artistry. His impact on the film world continues to be felt long after his passing, and his legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers worldwide.
In addition to his impressive and innovative work in the film industry, Panna Rittikrai was also a dedicated family man. He was married to Pranee Lardphanna and had two children, Kritsana and Krishna, both of whom followed in their father's footsteps and pursued careers in the film industry. Kritsana is a stuntman and fight choreographer, while Krishna is an actor and director. Rittikrai was known for being a supportive and nurturing father who encouraged his children to pursue their passions, and he remained close to them throughout his life. His family continues to honor his legacy and keep his memory alive through their work in the film industry. In addition, Rittikrai's contributions to the Thai martial arts genre and his impact on the film industry have been recognized by organizations around the world. He has received posthumous awards and tributes, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 8th World Film Festival of Bangkok in 2015, which was presented to his daughter, Krishna, on his behalf. Panna Rittikrai's work continues to inspire and influence filmmakers, and his legacy will always be remembered as a testament to his dedication, creativity, and groundbreaking approach to filmmaking.
He died as a result of multiple organ failure.
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Valaya Alongkorn (April 16, 1884 Grand Palace-February 15, 1938 Bangkok) a.k.a. Walai Alongkon or Princess of Siam, the Princess of Phetchaburi was a Thai personality.
She was the eldest daughter of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) of Siam and Queen Saovabha Phongsri. Valaya Alongkorn was educated at the Royal Palace School and was fluent in English and French. She was known for her interests in music, fashion, and the arts.
In 1906, she became the first member of the Siamese royal family to travel to Europe, where she met with several royal families and dignitaries. She was also actively involved in various charitable and social causes, establishing the Phra Rajsuddhakarayavida School to provide education to underprivileged children.
Valaya Alongkorn married three times and had eight children. Her second marriage was to a British diplomat, and they lived in England for several years before returning to Thailand. During her lifetime, she was considered one of the most beautiful and fashionable women in Thailand, and her style and elegance made her a popular figure both at home and abroad.
In addition to her philanthropic work and interest in the arts, Valaya Alongkorn was also an accomplished writer, publishing several books under the pen name of "Nuvalaya Alongkorn". Her works included poetry, short stories, and essays. She was also a talented musician and played several instruments, including the violin, piano, and harp. Valaya Alongkorn was a trailblazer for women in Thailand, breaking with tradition by travelling to Europe and pursuing her own interests and passions. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of Thai women to seek education, independence, and self-expression.
Valaya Alongkorn's third marriage was to Prince Samiddhi Prapathom who was also a member of the Siamese royal family. Together, they had four children. Valaya Alongkorn's love for fashion led her to establish the Phra Nakhon Textile Museum, which is now known as the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. The museum showcases the history of Thai textiles from the past to the present.
Valaya Alongkorn was also a pioneer in the field of healthcare, advocating for the establishment of the Thai Red Cross Society, which provides assistance to those in need during times of war and natural disasters. She was also instrumental in founding the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, which is dedicated to the research and treatment of snakebite victims.
Valaya Alongkorn's contributions to Thai society were recognized posthumously when a hospital in Bangkok was named after her. The hospital, known as the Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat Hospital, provides healthcare services to the community and serves as a tribute to her legacy.
Valaya Alongkorn was a member of the Siamese royal family and was known for her philanthropic contributions to society. She established several schools and hospitals and was passionate about providing education to underprivileged children. Her advocacy for the Thai Red Cross Society and the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute showcased her commitment to the welfare of the people of Thailand. Valaya Alongkorn's love for fashion and the arts also led her to establish the Phra Nakhon Textile Museum, which is now a popular tourist attraction in Bangkok. Her interests and accomplishments as a writer, musician, and patron of the arts have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Thailand. Her life and legacy serve as an inspiration to women in Thailand and around the world to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on their communities.
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