Thai team lauds sanctity & devotion at Jagannath Temple after visit
Led by Kiran Moongtin, minister attached to the department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs, the Thai team included senior officials from the Creative Economy Agency (CEA), academics from prominent Thai institutions, representatives from the tourism, wellness and cultural promotion sectors and diplomats from the Royal Thai Embassy in Delhi.
The visit was of special significance as the delegation offered prayers across all the eight shrines located within the temple complex, demonstrating their deep respect for Hindu traditions and local customs.
"The sanctity of the temple and devotion of the local community here is truly inspiring. The warm hospitality we have received exemplifies the deep cultural connection between the two nations. We feel deeply honoured to have experienced such warmth and spirituality," said Moongtin.
The Sri Sri Jagannath Cultural Trust extended a warm welcome to the international guests, with trustee Dip Chasa leading the reception alongside fellow trustees Atmaram Agarwal, Pankaj Sobor and Probal Das.
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The Trust's gesture of offering Mahaprasad — the sacred food offering, blessed by Lord Jagannath — along with light refreshments was received with profound appreciation by the delegation.
The visit holds particular significance in the context of India-Thailand relations, with deep historical roots dating back centuries through Buddhist and Hindu cultural exchanges. Thailand's substantial Hindu population and presence of numerous Hindu temples across their country has been an important bridge for cultural diplomacy between the two nations.
The visit concluded with the delegation expressing their gratitude and their commitment to strengthening the enduring cultural ties between India and Thailand through continued spiritual and cultural exchanges.
"This marks a proud moment of international recognition for the temple and a step forward in promoting global harmony through shared traditions," Vijay Khemani, secretary of the Sri Sri Jagannath Cultural Trust, said.
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