India and Thailand have a history rooted in ancient ties and Buddhism that continues to flourish through ongoing exchanges.
During his recent visit to Thailand, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a replica of the Ashoka Lion Stupa to the Wat Pho Temple to highlight the relationship between the two countries.
He also announced an upcoming exhibition of the Devni Mauri Relics in Gujarat, Thailand, to further strengthen the cultural ties between the two countries.
Following the visit, a high-level delegation of Thai monks arrived in India for a six-day visit to highlight the enduring spiritual and cultural ties between the two countries.
PM Modi Visits Thailand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Thailand highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two countries. While visiting the famous Wat Pho Temple, known for its reclining Buddha, Modi presented a replica of the Ashoka Lion Stupa, a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage.
The move was not only a tribute to the cultural significance of Thailand, but also a reaffirmation of the shared Buddhist values that bring the two countries together.
In a major announcement, PM Modi announced that the Devni Murri holy relic discovered in Gujarat in 1960 will be sent to Thailand for exhibition. The move is expected to enhance appreciation and understanding of Buddhism and its historical significance in both countries.
Thai Monk Delegation Visits India
Following PM Modi’s visit to India, a delegation of Thai Sangha led by the Acting Supreme Patriarch Somdej Phra Sirayanamuni arrived in India for a six-day visit. The delegation included other prominent members of the Thai Buddhist Sangha and was accorded the status of state guest.
Their itinerary included meetings with Indian ministers and visits to important cultural sites including in Gujarat.
The monks first performed a prayer ceremony at the National Museum and prostrated at the Relic Hall and chanted in Pali. The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) hosted this important event, further highlighting the spirit of cooperation between the two countries.
Cultural ties and shared heritage
During the visit, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, met with the Thai delegation and discussed the deep cultural ties between India and Thailand.
He stressed that the relationship between the two countries is not limited to Buddhism, but also covers the shared traditions of Hinduism. The Minister also mentioned the historical exchanges between scholars of the two countries and mentioned the influence of the Ramayana on Thai folklore and the linguistic links between Sanskrit and Pali.
He encouraged more Buddhist monks and devotees to visit India and provide opportunities for Indians to explore Thailand’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Significance of the delegation’s visit
The delegation’s visit is of great cultural significance as it strengthens the historical and spiritual ties between India and Thailand.
Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration and pointed out that the holy relics of the Buddha had arrived in Thailand from India last year, allowing millions of devotees to see them.
The exchange reflects the deep faith and devotion of the Thai people to Buddhism. The Minister also invited His Holiness Somdet Phra Therayanamuni to visit Ayodhya in recognition of his interest in Hindu mythology.
The visit of the Thai monk not only strengthens diplomatic relations but also promotes mutual understanding and respect for each other’s cultural heritage.
