Bangkok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bangkok, Thailand, on a two-day official visit to participate in the 6th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit. Upon his arrival, PM Modi received a grand welcome from the Indian diaspora, who greeted him with chants of “Modi-Modi” and “Vande Mataram.”
A significant highlight of PM Modi’s visit was the unveiling of a special commemorative stamp by the Thai government in honour of the Ramayana. The stamp pays tribute to the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Thailand, reflecting the influence of Indian epics in Southeast Asian traditions. PM Modi expressed his appreciation for this gesture, emphasising that the Ramayana continues to be a bridge connecting different parts of Asia through shared traditions and values.
As PM Modi visits Thailand, the country releases a special stamp based on #Ramayan mural paintings from the 18th century. pic.twitter.com/lcFg1ta9ow
— Nishant Azad/निशांत आज़ाद🇮🇳 (@azad_nishant) April 3, 2025
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi witnessed a captivating performance of ‘Ramakien,’ the Thai version of the Ramayana. Deeply moved by the performance, he highlighted the cultural and civilizational ties between India and Thailand. “Such cultural connections are unparalleled. Watching the spectacular presentation of Ramakien was an enriching experience, beautifully showcasing the shared heritage of India and Thailand,” PM Modi stated.
#WATCH | Bangkok, Thailand | PM Narendra Modi witnesses the Thai version of the Ramayana, Ramakien.
(Source – DD/ANI) pic.twitter.com/ePnxBylJYd
— ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2025
At the cultural event, a group of Thai students performed a unique fusion of India’s classical Bharatanatyam and Thailand’s traditional ‘Khon’ dance, narrating the story of Ramakien. The performance symbolized the cultural amalgamation of both nations, demonstrating the historical impact of Indian traditions in Thailand.
Prime Minister Modi held discussions with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and other senior leaders, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and regional security.
During his visit, PM Modi is also expected to visit the historic ‘Wat Pho’ temple, one of Thailand’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples. Known for its massive reclining Buddha statue and over 1,000 Buddha images, the temple holds immense religious and cultural significance.
On April 4, PM Modi is set to engage in crucial discussions with leaders from BIMSTEC member nations, including Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, and Bhutan. The summit aims to enhance regional economic collaboration, security initiatives, and trade partnerships among member states.
India and Thailand share an enduring cultural relationship dating back nearly two thousand years. Ancient Indian influences, including Buddhism, the Vedic tradition, and the Ramayana, have shaped Thai culture. In Thailand, Lord Rama is referred to as ‘Phra Ram,’ and Buddhist monks, tracing their lineage to Emperor Ashoka, played a vital role in spreading Buddhist teachings in the region. Historical Indian texts even describe Thailand as ‘Suwarnabhumi’ (Land of Gold), reflecting its historical significance in ancient Indian literature.
