On 11 June 2024, H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, together with H.E. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture of India, presided over the Inaugural Ceremony of the “Thailand-India Interwoven Legacies: Stream of Faith in Buddhism” photo exhibition in auspicious occasion to celebrate His Majesty the King’s 72nd Birthday Anniversary, at the National Museum of India.

On this occasion, the Foreign Minister extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India for the kind support towards the historic exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and his esteemed disciples, Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana from the National Museum of India to be temporarily showcased in 4 regions of Thailand from 22 February 2024 to 19 March 2024, whereas over 4 millions of Thai devotees paid homage to during that period of time. This signifies close and deep-rooted ties between the two countries, including cultural and buddhist linkages Thailand and India have shared. The photo collection from the exposition is currently being displayed in the Exhibition on “Thailand-India Interwoven Legacies: Stream of Faith in Buddhism” today.

The Minister of Culture of India was pleased to learn that a large number of Thais paid homage to the first-ever exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and his esteemed disciples outside India, which showed how Thailand and India share cultural heritage, as well as the event being a bridge connecting special ties between the two countries. In addition, he agreed with the Foreign Minister to express appreciation towards every contribution, especially the BodhiGayā Vijjālaya 980 Institute and the National Museum of India, who continuously coordinated closely with the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi.

The photo exhibition is open to public from 11 July 2024 to 4 August 2024 during the opening hours of the National Museum of India.