In a momentous celebration of India’s 75th Republic Day, the Embassy of India in Bangkok hosted a spectacular reception on January 26, 2024, attended by Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, marking a rare and significant gesture of bilateral friendship.
The event witnessed an extraordinary turnout with over 1000 distinguished guests, including representatives from the Royal Thai Government, business leaders, members of the media, academia, diplomatic corps, and the Indian community in Thailand. The presence of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at a National Day event underscores the deepening ties between India and Thailand.
The Chief Guest for the evening was HE Mr. Sermsak Pongpanit, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Thailand. In his address, Minister Pongpanit highlighted the strong linguistic, religious, and cultural ties between India and Thailand, which have served as the bedrock for fostering deeper bilateral relations in contemporary times.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Nagesh Singh emphasized the profound connection between Buddhism and democracy in ancient India. He acknowledged India’s remarkable progress as a democracy amidst various challenges and stressed the opportunities and imperatives to enhance bilateral ties in areas such as political exchanges, economy and trade, defense and security, education, and culture.
A captivating highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing dance recital of Ramayana, known as Ramakien in Thailand, showcasing a fusion of Bharatnatyam from India and Khon from Thailand. The performance, presented by Mr. Ekkalak Nu-ngoen and students from the Faculty of Music and Drama, Bunditpatanasilpa Institute in Bangkok, received widespread appreciation for seamlessly blending traditional dance forms of both countries.
The Ramayana holds a special place in the cultural consciousness of both India and Thailand, portraying shared values of sacrifice, duty, devotion, and the triumph of good over evil. The fusion dance performance showcased the enduring cultural bonds between the two nations.
Adding a culinary delight to the evening, Michelin Star Indian chef Ms. Garima Arora, based in Bangkok, presented an innovative and contemporary selection of Indian cuisine. Ms. Arora, who made history as the first Indian woman to win a Michelin star in 2018, further solidified her culinary prowess by earning a second star in 2023.
The grand reception, marked by cultural performances, diplomatic engagements, and gastronomic delights, reaffirmed the everlasting friendship and promising future for the bilateral relations between India and Thailand. The event was shared with the world through the hashtag #75thRepublicDay, symbolizing the celebration of India’s enduring democratic spirit and the strengthening of ties with its civilizational neighbor.