PM Modi Presents Traditional Indian Gifts To Thai Royals; Highlights Shared Heritage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday presented culturally significant Indian gifts to Thailand’s royal family during his meeting at the Dusit Palace in Bangkok.

He gifted a brass statue of Sarnath Buddha in Dhyan Mudra to King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and a handcrafted brocade silk shawl from Varanasi to Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana.

The brass Buddha statue, a striking representation of peace and spiritual depth, embodies the artistic traditions of Gupta and Pala styles.

Originating from Bihar, it reflects India’s Buddhist heritage through its detailed craftsmanship, serene facial features, and lotus pedestal.

The brocade shawl, woven from the finest silk, showcases India’s rich textile heritage.

Designed with traditional motifs inspired by miniature and Pichwai art, it features depictions of nature, village life, and celebratory scenes.

Its vibrant colors-red, green, blue, and yellow-signify joy, while the ornamental gold and magenta borders give it a regal touch.

The shawl, both luxurious and warm, took weeks of artisan labor to complete.

Strengthening Cultural & Strategic Ties

During the royal meeting, PM Modi and the Thai monarchs discussed the shared cultural heritage between India and Thailand.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that they reflected on the spiritual ties strengthened by the transfer of Lord Buddha’s relics from India to Thailand in 2023, a gesture that has significantly deepened people-to-people connections.

The two sides also discussed avenues to enhance their multifaceted bilateral relationship, ranging from cultural cooperation to strategic and economic collaboration.

BIMSTEC Summit Participation

Earlier in the day, PM Modi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit.

He welcomed key agreements, including the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement and the adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the significance of these developments in a post on X, stating that the summit laid the groundwork for regional integration and sustainable development.

Reaffirming India’s commitment to regional cooperation, PM Modi emphasized that BIMSTEC holds immense potential for improving lives across South and Southeast Asia.

His engagements in Thailand reflect a strong push toward cultural diplomacy, regional partnerships, and enhanced connectivity.

These efforts collectively aim to elevate India’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region through shared values, spiritual connections, and inclusive development.

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