Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday presented a brass statue of Sarnath Buddha in Dhyan Mudra to Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and a brocade silk shawl from Varanasi to Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana during his visit to Dusit Palace in Bangkok.
Symbolic Gifts Representing India’s Heritage
The brass statue is an exquisite representation of Buddhist spirituality and Indian craftsmanship, inspired by the Sarnath style. Originating from Bihar, it reflects Gupta and Pala art traditions, with a serene expression, intricately detailed robe, and iconic lotus pedestal.
The brocade silk shawl, a masterpiece of India’s rich weaving tradition, is crafted from finest silk and features intricate motifs depicting village life, divine celebrations, and nature, inspired by Indian miniature and Pichwai art. Its vivid color palette—reds, blues, greens, and yellows—symbolizes joy and auspiciousness, while a broad ornamental border in deep pink, magenta, and gold adds a regal touch. Skilled artisans dedicate weeks of meticulous craftsmanship to create each unique piece.
Strengthening India-Thailand Cultural Ties
According to a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release, PM Modi and the Thai Royal Family exchanged views on the shared cultural heritage between India and Thailand. They also discussed ways to further strengthen multifaceted ties between the two nations.
“They exchanged views on shared cultural heritage between India and Thailand. In this context, they spoke about the relics of Lord Buddha, which traveled from India to Thailand last year and the positive impact the initiative has had in strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries,” the MEA stated.
PM Modi at BIMSTEC Summit
Earlier in the day, PM Modi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit in Bangkok. He welcomed the adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 and the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said:
“PM @narendramodi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok today. PM welcomed signing of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030, and adoption of the Report of BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group. The BIMSTEC Member States also adopted the Summit Declaration.”
PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to boosting cooperation across diverse sectors in the BIMSTEC region, expressing hope that the efforts would bring positive change for the member states.
The summit was attended by Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, and Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli, among others.
Sources By Agencies
