“Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar Expresses Deep Emotion as Million Thai Devotees Honor Buddhist Holy Relics in Bangkok”
Last Updated on March 5, 2024 2:24 pm
In a poignant moment of cross-cultural unity, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed profound emotion at witnessing a staggering turnout of one million Thai devotees paying heartfelt respects to the sacred Buddhist Holy Relics, dispatched from India. Jaishankar underscored the significance of a shared heritage and culture, portraying them as bridges fostering a unique and special bond between nations.
The minister conveyed his gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Embassy in Thailand, and the International Buddhist Confederation for their collaborative efforts in orchestrating this spiritually enriching event. Taking to social media on Sunday, Jaishankar shared his sentiments, stating, “Deeply moved to see a million Thai devotees pay respects to the Buddhist Holy Relics which traveled from India. Our shared heritage and culture is a bridge that creates a special bond. Thank @MinOfCultureGoI, @IndiainThailand & @IbcWorldOrg for their efforts.”
The grand exposition, which marked the culmination on Sunday in Bangkok’s Sanam Luang, witnessed the relics drawing thousands of devoted individuals to pay homage to the sacred artifacts from India. The Indian Embassy in Thailand documented the sunset on the final day of the exposition, encapsulating the spiritual significance and reverence exhibited by the Thai devotees.
Notably, this event commemorates the auspicious sixth cycle and the 72nd birth year of King Rama X, serving as a symbol of the enduring friendship between the people of India and Thailand. The relics, including those of Lord Buddha and his disciples, had arrived in Thailand on a special Indian Air Force plane on February 22.
With approximately 145,834 people paying their respects on Saturday alone, the relics are set to travel to Chiang Mai for the next phase of their 25-day exposition. Subsequent stops include Ubon Ratchathani and Krabi, creating a historic and spiritually significant journey across four cities in Thailand.
Beyond the Thai borders, the exposition has attracted devotees from neighboring countries, including Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, further emphasizing the global resonance of this cultural and spiritual exchange. The relics will return to their respective homes on March 19, concluding a momentous chapter in the shared spiritual tapestry of India and Thailand.