On 11 April 2025, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Kolkata held a merit-making ceremony
to mark the auspicious occasion of Songkran, the Thai New Year, and to commemorate the opening of its new chancery. The event was presided over by Ms. Siriporn Tantipanyathep, Consul-General of Thailand in Kolkata, and attended by officials and approximately 30 members of the Thai community residing in Kolkata.

         To honour this occasion, the Consulate-General had the privilege of inviting Phra Bodhiviteṭ Vajiravisuddhi (Phramaha Nipon Nyanaviro), Chief Abbot of Wat Latthiwan Suantarnnoom, Bihar, India and Head of the Thai Buddhist Missionary Office in India and Nepal. His Venerable was recently bestowed the royal ecclesiastical title of Phra Rajakhana by His Majesty the King of Thailand, officially conferred on 3 March 2025.

Following the religious observances, a sacred water blessing ritual, in which holy water was gently sprinkled on attendees as a symbol of goodwill, purification, and blessings for the New Year. Consul-General Siriporn led traditional Songkran customs, including the bathing of the Buddha image and the pouring of water over the hands of respected elders, acts that represent reverence, gratitude, and the spirit of renewal.

This meaningful gathering not only celebrated the Thai New Year and reinforced cultural traditions but also served as an opportunity to honour Phra Bodhiviteṭ Vajiravisuddhi on his recent ecclesiastical elevation. The event strengthened bonds within the Thai community in Kolkata and underscored the enduring spiritual connection between Thai nationals in India and the shared heritage of Buddhism.