During his official visit to Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi exchanged a series of culturally significant gifts with the Thai royal family and senior leaders, showcasing India’s deep-rooted traditions and artistic excellence. The gesture underlined the longstanding cultural and spiritual bonds between India and Thailand.

Meeting the Thai Royals at Dusit Palace

At Bangkok’s Dusit Palace, Prime Minister Modi met with Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana. To honour the royal couple, he presented them with uniquely crafted gifts reflecting India’s spiritual legacy and artisanal finesse.

A Brass Buddha for the King

As a symbol of shared Buddhist heritage, PM Modi presented the King with a brass statue of the Buddha in Dhyan Mudra, originating from Bihar. The sculpture is inspired by the Sarnath style, with artistic influences from the Gupta and Pala eras. The serene figure of the meditating Buddha sits in Padmasana atop a detailed lotus pedestal. The statue’s halo, or Prabhavali, features floral engravings and celestial motifs, with the Dharmachakra and other sacred symbols etched on its base. Crafted in polished brass, the piece stands for resilience, calm, and the timeless relevance of Dharma.

Varanasi Silk for the Queen

To the Queen of Thailand, PM Modi gifted a brocade silk shawl from Varanasi — a city famed for its ancient weaving traditions. The luxurious shawl is adorned with detailed motifs that illustrate themes from nature, village life, and spiritual narratives, inspired by Indian miniature paintings and Pichwai art. Woven in vivid hues like crimson, emerald, sapphire, and gold, and bordered with ornate pink and magenta patterns, the shawl is not just a garment but a tribute to the finesse of Indian handloom artisans.

Tribal Craft for the Thai Prime Minister

To the Prime Minister of Thailand, PM Modi presented a brass peacock-shaped boat crafted in the traditional Dokra style from Chhattisgarh. Using the ancient lost-wax technique, tribal artisans hand-sculpted a peacock-themed vessel with a rider depicted paddling — symbolising balance between humanity and nature. Rich in pattern and texture, the piece evolves with time, acquiring a natural patina that enhances its uniqueness and authenticity.

Elegant Cufflinks for the PM’s Spouse

Completing the series of offerings, PM Modi gifted a pair of gold-plated cufflinks to the spouse of the Thai Prime Minister. Designed in silver and embellished with tiger motifs, the cufflinks signify strength and leadership. Encircled by delicate pearls and detailed with Meenakari enamel work — a craft native to Rajasthan and Gujarat — these accessories combine traditional symbolism with modern design, complete with bullet-back closures for practicality.

Through these carefully chosen gifts, India celebrated its artistic diversity and deepened the cultural connect with Thailand, reinforcing a centuries-old partnership rooted in shared values, heritage, and mutual respect.