In a surprising turn of events, the estranged son of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, has made a sudden return to the country after 27 years of living abroad. The 42-year-old, who works at a law firm in New York, arrived at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport on August 6 and was warmly greeted by well-wishers upon his arrival. Vivacharawongse's return comes at a sensitive time for the Thai royal family, with the king's eldest daughter still in a coma since December.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol collapsed due to heart arrhythmia, which was later determined to be caused by a mycoplasma infection. She has remained unconscious and on life support since then, according to the latest statement from the Palace in January. Vivacharawongse is the second son of King Vajiralongkorn and his second wife, Sujarinee Vivacharawongse, a former actress. His return highlights the complex dynamics within the royal family, as his mother was accused of adultery and publicly divorced by the then-crown prince in 1996. Following the divorce, Sujarinee and her children moved abroad, while the youngest daughter was eventually taken back by the royal family and given the title Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana.

However, the four sons, including Vivacharawongse, remain estranged and do not hold any formal royal titles. During his visit to Bangkok, Vivacharawongse demonstrated his compassionate nature by visiting a daycare center for underprivileged children. He not only donated money to support their work but also spent time personally interacting with the children, showing a genuine interest in the foundation's efforts to help underprivileged families. Heartwarming photos posted on the foundation's Facebook page captured Vivacharawongse embracing the children and engaging in meaningful conversations with them.

In addition to his charitable activities, Vivacharawongse also took the opportunity to explore the spiritual side of Bangkok. Just a day after his arrival, he was seen visiting several religious sites, including the renowned Temple of the Emerald Buddha situated within the grounds of the Grand Palace. Vivacharawongse shared his experiences on social media, posting a photo of himself on an auto-rickshaw at night with the caption 'Bangkok Tuk-Tuk.' King Vajiralongkorn, who ascended the throne in 2016 following the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, has been married four times and has seven children.

However, he has yet to name an official heir. His fourth marriage to Queen Suthida was announced shortly before his coronation in 2019, further adding to the intrigue surrounding the royal family. Vivacharawongse's surprise return after such a lengthy period of estrangement offers a glimmer of hope for reconciliation and unity within the Thai royal household. As the story continues to unfold, the public eagerly awaits further developments and the potential impact they may have on the future of the monarchy.