As Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Thailand, the spotlight shines brightly on the age-old bond between India and Thailand—two nations connected by a rich tapestry of culture, trade, and spiritual heritage. This visit not only strengthens contemporary diplomatic relations but also revives the echoes of a relationship that has flourished for over two millennia.

A Friendship Carved in Stone and Scripture

The India-Thailand connection isn’t just a few decades old—it’s ancient and sacred. The spread of Buddhism from India to Thailand is one of the most profound cultural exports in world history. Around the 3rd century BCE, under the patronage of Emperor Ashoka, Buddhist monks traveled far and wide, bringing with them teachings of compassion, mindfulness, and dharma to the Suvarnabhumi region—now modern-day Thailand.

Today, nearly 95% of Thais practice Theravāda Buddhism, and many Thai monks still travel to Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar in India, retracing the sacred footsteps of the Buddha. It’s like a spiritual siblinghood that’s stood the test of time.

Sanskrit in Siam: A Linguistic Legacy

Did you know that Thai script and vocabulary have deep roots in Sanskrit and Pali? Words like “Raja” (king), “Naga” (serpent deity), and even the name “Ayutthaya” (a former capital of Thailand) trace back to Indian origins. Thai royal ceremonies still include Sanskrit chants, and Ramayana—the Indian epic—is performed across Thai stages as Ramakien, their own local version filled with dazzling dance and dramatic storytelling.

So yes, India’s Netflix-worthy mythologies were global blockbusters way before streaming was cool.

Maritime Silk Roads and Spice Routes

India and Thailand were major players in the ancient maritime trade network, long before the British brought their tea and ships to the scene. Ports on India’s eastern coast like Tamralipta and Kalinga saw frequent trade with the Kingdoms of Dvaravati and Srivijaya.

India brought spices, textiles, ivory, and most importantly—ideas. Thailand, in return, shared its own gems, ceramics, and artistic styles. It was a symphony of commerce and culture.

A memorable visit to Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram Ratchaworamahawihan Or Wat Pho!@ingshin pic.twitter.com/Yx0RoQX9A1

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025

Modern Diplomacy: Economic and Strategic Partnerships

In today’s era, India and Thailand continue to be strategic partners. They are both part of ASEAN, share maritime boundaries in the Bay of Bengal, and have conducted joint naval exercises. Initiatives like India’s Act East Policy and Thailand’s Look West Policy have added a modern spin to an old friendship.

Bilateral trade is booming, tourism between the two countries is soaring, and connectivity is set to improve further with the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project—a roadtrip-worthy collaboration if there ever was one!

PM Modi’s Visit: Symbolism and Strategy

Prime Minister Modi’s visit is more than a diplomatic event—it’s a reaffirmation of historical roots and a vision for a shared future. The agenda includes boosting defense ties, increasing trade volumes, deepening cultural exchange, and perhaps even ordering some authentic Pad Thai (because diplomacy works better with good food 😄).

He’s also expected to engage with the Indian diaspora in Thailand, who serve as a vibrant cultural bridge between the two nations.

A Timeless Bond, Reimagined

India and Thailand have danced together through centuries of spiritual, cultural, and economic exchanges. From the chants of monks to the pages of history books, from the shores of the Bay of Bengal to the streets of Bangkok—the spirit of this relationship is alive and thriving.

As PM Modi meets Thai leaders, this visit becomes more than just headlines—it’s a reminder that ancient friendships, when nurtured with respect and vision, can build powerful futures.