Thai Ambassador Emphasizes Cultural Ties During Visit to India's Historic Sites

Pattarat Hongtong, Thailand's Ambassador to India, recently visited the Charaideo Maidam in Assam and the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar. Her visit highlighted the historical and cultural connections between India and Southeast Asia, particularly underlining the significance of ancient educational and royal burial sites.

Thailand's Ambassador to India, Pattarat Hongtong, visited Assam's Charaideo Maidam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a recent tour. She was welcomed upon arrival by Assam State Directorate of Archaeology's Director Deepirekha Kuli and Assam Legislative Assembly Member Dharmeshwar Konwar. Hongtong toured the Maidam and its museum, capturing moments with her camera.

The ambassador's itinerary also included a visit to the Ahom Royal Moon Dun Chun Kham Buddhist Vihar in Lakuwa Charmuthia and interaction with villagers in Shyam village, Chalapatha. She expressed her appreciation, stating, "It was a great opportunity to visit and learn about the culture and heritage maintained here."

The maidams of Charaideo, akin to Egypt's pyramids, serve as burial grounds for Ahom royalty and are noted for their architectural brilliance. Hongtong's visit also coincided with the inauguration of Nalanda University's new campus in Bihar by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting Nalanda's historical and modern significance as a center for cultural and academic exchange.

During her visit to Nalanda, Hongtong emphasized the cultural ties between India and Southeast Asia. "We see a complete picture of civilizations spread to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, especially with Nalanda University being a significant part of the Buddhist circuit," she noted.

The visit of various diplomats, including Hongtong, underscores the enduring legacy of Nalanda University as a symbol of ancient knowledge and its modern role in promoting cultural exchange. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the new campus in Rajgir on June 19, cementing Nalanda's place in both history and contemporary educational pursuits.

(With inputs from agencies.)