India-Thailand Cultural Connect

Historical and Cultural Ties:

• Thailand, part of the Suvarnabhumi territory, is mentioned in the Ramayana.
• Ancient trade links with South India, and kingdoms like Dvaravati and Khmer had strong ties with India.
• Brahmanism coexisted with Buddhism, and Thai worship includes Indian deities like Ganesha, Shiva, and Vishnu.
  • Emperor Ashoka sent Buddhist missionaries to Thailand in the 3rd century BCE, deeply influencing Thai culture and religion.
• The Thai language includes Sanskrit and Pali words, while Thai art and architecture exhibit Indian influences, particularly in temples.
• Association with Lord Rama:
  • The Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana, is central to Thai culture, with murals depicting episodes in temples.
  • The title Rama has been adopted by all the monarchs of Thailand’s Chakri Dynasty, which began with King Rama I in 1782.
  • Ayutthaya city was the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350–1767) in present-day Thailand, and it is thought that the name is derived from the Indian city of Ayodhya.

Modern Diplomatic and Cultural Relations:

• Diplomatic Ties were established in 1947, the two countries celebrated 75 years of relations in 2022.
• Thai-Bharat Cultural Lodge (1940) promotes educational and cultural exchanges. Thai citizens visit India for religious and cultural purposes, especially Buddhist sites.

Recent Initiatives:

• Exhibitions like “Indo-Siam Connect” showcase shared heritage.
• Joint research and academic exchanges continue to deepen mutual understanding.

(a) Bagh Caves (b) Ellora Caves (c) Lomas Rishi caves (d) Nasik Caves