Padma Awards 2022: One of the highest civilian awards of the country. Padma Awards are conferred in three categories — Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. It is given in various disciplines. It includes art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc. This year as many as 128 Padma awards were conferred. This includes 4 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan, and 107 Padma Shri awards.
Prof. Dr. Chirapat Prapandvidya is a Thai Sanskrit scholar and an Indologist. He is known for his contributions towards Indo-Thai connections and friendship for decades. Dr. Chirapat Prapandvidya has been awarded the Padma Shri in literature and education. He is a professor and a Head of the Department of Silipakorn University.
His Royal Highness King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua conveyed his blessings through a royal message. His Majesty addressed the Indian Premier on the 73rd Anniversary of the Indian Republic Day.
During the celebrations at the India Embassy in Bangkok, H.E. Ms. Suchitra Durai congratulated Dr. Prapandavidya for receiving the Padma Shri Award.
The Prime Minister highlighted the “inspiring work” being done by people across the world in researching the Sanskrit language. In his Mann Ki Baat, he sighted the contributions of Dr. Prapandvidya. “Dr. Chirapat Prapandvidya and Dr. Kusuma Rakshamani, both of them are playing a very important role in the promotion of the Sanskrit language in Thailand,” said Prime Minister Modi. “He also composed comparative literature in Thai and Sanskrit languages.”