Bangkok (Thailand)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Bangkok, presented a range of exquisite gifts reflecting India's rich heritage and artistry to Thai leaders, including Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and their spouses.

As a symbolic gift to the Thai prime minister, PM Modi presented a Dokra brass peacock boat with a tribal rider to Thai PM Srettha Thavisin. Crafted using the ancient lost-wax casting technique, this unique piece originates from the tribal communities of Chhattisgarh. Each artifact is handcrafted, making every piece distinct and irreplaceable.

The sculpture features a peacock-shaped boat symbolising grace and cultural imagination. Intricate patterns and colourful lacquer inlays add to its artistic appeal, while a tribal rider calmly rowing the boat represents the harmony between humans and nature — a central theme in Dokra art.

The brass material ensures the piece develops a rich patina over time, enhancing its antique charm. This gift not only serves as a decorative piece but also preserves India’s tribal heritage, embodying simplicity, creativity and a deep connection to nature.

A touch of royalty

PM Modi presented to the spouse of the Thai PM a gold-plated tiger motif cufflinks with pearls, a blend of tradition, artistry and modern sophistication. The tiger motif symbolises courage, leadership and royalty, elements deeply embedded in Indian heritage.

These cufflinks feature intricate Meenakariwork, a traditional enamel detailing craft from Rajasthan and Gujarat, adding vibrant hues and depth to the design. The pearl bead border introduces a subtle elegance, balancing strength and grace.

Made of high-quality silver with gold plating, they come with a bullet-back closure for durability and ease of use. More than just accessories, these cufflinks serve as wearable pieces of heritage.

A spiritual offering

The prime minister also met Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua at Dusit Palace in Bangkok, where he presented a brass statue of Sarnath Buddha in Dhyan Mudra. Inspired by the Sarnath style of Buddhist art, this masterpiece originates from Bihar and reflects the influences of the Gupta and Pala art traditions.

The statue’s serene expression, intricately detailed robe and iconic lotus pedestal highlight India's exceptional craftsmanship and spiritual depth. The gift underscores India's historic ties with Thailand, a nation deeply influenced by Buddhist traditions.

An exquisite brocade silk shawl

To Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana, PM Modi gifted a brocade silk shawl from Varanasi, a true testament to India’s renowned weaving traditions. Crafted from the finest silk, the shawl features intricate motifs depicting village life, divine celebrations and nature, inspired by Indian miniature and Pichwai art.

The shawl’s vivid colour palette — reds, blues, greens and yellows — symbolises joy and auspiciousness, while a broad ornamental border in deep pink, magenta and gold adds a regal touch. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, the shawl boasts a luxurious drape, with skilled artisans dedicating weeks of meticulous craftsmanship to create each piece.

Strengthening India-Thailand relations

According to a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release, the leaders exchanged views on their shared cultural heritage and discussed ways to enhance bilateral ties. The discussions also touched on the relics of Lord Buddha that travelled from India to Thailand last year, an initiative that strengthened people-to-people ties between the two nations.

PM Modi’s participation in BIMSTEC Summit

Earlier in the day, PM Modi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, reaffirming India's commitment to boosting cooperation across diverse sectors in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) region.

The prime minister welcomed the adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 and the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, emphasising India's proactive role in regional collaboration.

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In a post on X, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “PM @narendramodi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok today. PM welcomed signing of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030, and adoption of the Report of BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group. The BIMSTEC Member States also adopted the Summit Declaration.”

During the summit, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with several world leaders, including Bhutan’s PM Tshering Tobgay, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Nepal’s PM KP Sharma Oli. He expressed optimism that these efforts would make a positive impact on the BIMSTEC member states, further strengthening regional cooperation.

(With inputs from ANI and IANS)