Why is the Thai Buddhist leader visiting Gujarat?
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Synopsis
A high-ranking Thai Buddhist delegation led by the esteemed Somdet Phra Thirayarnmuni pays homage to plane crash victims during their visit to Gujarat. This seven-day journey aims to strengthen spiritual ties, delve into shared Buddhist heritage, and promote peace, showcasing the importance of cultural diplomacy between India and Thailand.
Key Takeaways
- The Thai delegation is enhancing cultural ties with India.
- Gujarat's rich Buddhist heritage is being highlighted.
- The visit includes significant sites linked to Buddhist history.
- Condolences were expressed for victims of a plane crash.
- The state is committed to promoting religious tourism.
Gandhinagar, June 18 (NationPress) A distinguished Thai spiritual and cultural delegation, led by the esteemed Buddhist monk Somdet Phra Thirayarnmuni, visited Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar. This delegation is on a seven-day journey across India, dedicating five days to Gujarat to enhance spiritual connections, explore mutual Buddhist heritage, and foster peace and harmony.
During their meeting, the delegation conveyed their condolences for the victims of the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, honoring those who lost their lives. CM Patel extended a warm welcome, emphasizing that their visit symbolizes a message of peace, goodwill, and spiritual unity. He remarked that this engagement will further bolster India-Thailand relations, especially in cultural diplomacy and religious tourism.
The Thai group comprises two senior monks from the Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand, advisors to the Thai Prime Minister, along with actor Gagan Malik, renowned for his roles as Lord Buddha and Ram in Indian television.
The delegation expressed a profound interest in Gujarat's Buddhist legacy, notably the ancient sites of Vadnagar and Devni Mori, which hold great significance within the Buddhist circuit and historical pilgrimages associated with the Chinese traveler Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang).
Chief Minister Patel recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent announcement in Thailand regarding the exhibition of Lord Buddha's sacred relics from Devni Mori.
He reaffirmed the state's commitment to transforming Devni Mori into a premier global Buddhist pilgrimage site, including plans to recreate the submerged stupa as a symbolic monument.
During the discussions, Tourism Secretary Dr. Rajendra Kumar provided an in-depth presentation on Gujarat's rich Buddhist heritage, featuring stupas, vihars, and rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
The delegation displayed great enthusiasm in discovering the cultural and archaeological richness of the region. In a symbolic gesture, CM Patel presented a commemorative memento to Somdet Phra Thirayarnmuni, who reciprocated with Buddhist literature and sacred items.
The Buddhist leader reflected on his spiritual journey, sharing his experiences at Belur Math in Kolkata and his admiration for Swami Vivekananda, whose statue in the CM's chamber caught his eye during the visit.
The delegation plans to visit Vadodara, the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, and Dwarka before their departure on June 21. CM Patel concluded the meeting with confidence that this visit would act as a bridge connecting the cultural values of India and Thailand.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the importance of cultural exchanges like this visit from the Thai Buddhist leader. Such interactions not only reinforce diplomatic ties but also promote mutual respect and understanding among nations, showcasing the rich tapestry of our shared heritage.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Thai delegation's visit to Gujarat?
The delegation aims to deepen spiritual ties, explore shared Buddhist heritage, and promote peace and harmony.
Who leads the Thai delegation?
The delegation is led by the esteemed Buddhist monk Somdet Phra Thirayarnmuni.
What notable sites did the delegation express interest in?
They showed interest in Gujarat's ancient sites, particularly Vadnagar and Devni Mori.
How does this visit enhance India-Thailand relations?
This visit strengthens cultural diplomacy and religious tourism between the two nations.
What was presented during the meeting?
CM Patel presented a commemorative memento, while the Buddhist leader gifted literature and sacred items.
