Thailand Issues Special Stamp Inspired by Ramayan Murals During PM Modi's Visit

Bangkok, April 3 (NationPress) Thailand unveiled a special stamp inspired by Ramayan mural paintings from the 18th century on the inaugural day of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official trip to the nation.

“I am thankful to the Thai Government for issuing this unique postage stamp based on the 18th-century Ramayan mural paintings to honor my visit,” the Prime Minister expressed.

In a further show of goodwill, highlighting the deep-rooted civilizational connection between both nations, PM Modi received the sacred texts - World Tipitaka in Pali - from Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra following their discussions at the Government House in Bangkok on Thursday.

The day also featured another cultural link as PM Modi enjoyed an impressive performance of the Thai Ramayana, 'Ramakien', shortly after his arrival in Bangkok.

“I witnessed a mesmerizing performance of the Thai Ramayana, Ramakien. It was an enriching experience that beautifully highlighted the shared cultural and civilizational bonds between India and Thailand. The Ramayana continues to connect hearts and traditions across various parts of Asia,” remarked Prime Minister Modi.

India's relationship with Thailand is deeply rooted in history, long-standing social and cultural interactions, and extensive people-to-people connections. The mutual link of Buddhism is evidenced by the regular pilgrimages made by many Thai people to significant Buddhist sites in India. Additionally, Hindu influences are evident in Thai architecture, art, dance, drama, and literature. The Thai language is also enriched by Pali and Sanskrit.

Thursday's significant gestures further underscore how India's vibrant traditions are prominently showcased during PM Modi's international visits.

During his trip to Mauritius in March 2025, PM Modi visited Ganga Talao, symbolizing spiritual unity between India and Mauritius. He offered prayers and immersed the holy water from the Triveni Sangam at this sacred site.

The Prime Minister's act of bringing holy water from the revered Mahakumbh Mela to Ganga Talao signified not only the spiritual unity between the two nations but also their commitment to preserving and nurturing the rich traditions that form the foundation of their cultural ties.

In Kuwait last December, PM Modi met with two Kuwaiti nationals known for translating and publishing Arabic versions of the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

During his visit to Brazil in November 2024, PM Modi was welcomed with the chanting of mantras. He also witnessed a Ramayana enactment in Rio de Janeiro, performed by students from Vishwa Vidya, a Brazilian organization dedicated to promoting Vedanta and Sanskrit.

The founder of Vishwa Vidya, Jonas Masseti (also known as Vishwanath), received the Prime Minister in Sanskrit. The Vishwa Vidya group also performed Vedic chants to welcome the Prime Minister upon his arrival at the hotel in Rio de Janeiro.

In Guyana in November 2024, PM Modi enjoyed soulful Ram Bhajans and Vedic chants performed by children.

Prior to that, during his visit to Russia, PM Modi was welcomed by Russian nationals singing Krishna Bhajan in Kazan.

In Laos, PM Modi was greeted by locals chanting the Gayatri Mantra. He also witnessed a performance of the Lao Ramayana, known as Phalak Phalam or Phra Lak Phra Ram, by the esteemed Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang.

The Ramayana is still celebrated in Laos, reflecting the shared heritage and longstanding civilizational connections between both nations. Various aspects of Indian culture and tradition have been preserved and practiced in Laos for centuries.

During PM Modi's visit to Italy in 2021, community members in Rome chanted the Shiva Mantra in his presence.