In a move to enhance Indo-Thai cultural ties, Indian Ambassador to Thailand and the Silpakorn University President renewed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Sanskrit Chair at the university.
Renewal of MoU focuses on long-term co-operation between Silpakorn University and ICCR towards upholding the common linguistic heritage. Plans for propagating teaching Hindi in schools in Thailand as well as in the context of students to exchange expertise on archaeology constitute the general direction toward enhancing cultures.
"Indo-Thai relations were emphasized by the Ambassador through Silpakorn University's Sanskrit Study Centre. The talks also touched upon promoting Hindi among Thai students and exchanging archaeological expertise", the Embassy of India in Bangkok shared on X.
Sanskrit has shaped Southeast Asian religion, philosophy, and literature for many centuries, most notably in Thailand, where it has been studied for more than 100 years. The Silpakorn University opened the Sanskrit Studies Centre in 1996 to enhance research and education in the language.
The ICCR Sanskrit Chair at Silpakorn University was first established in 2013, with the MoU renewed in April 2023, valid until December 2024. ICCR also maintains similar academic chairs in Thailand, including a Hindi Chair at Thammasat University’s Pridi Banomyong International College (valid until April 2025) and a Chair of Indian Studies at Chiang Mai University, established in 2018.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 80th installment of his 'Mann ki Baat' radio address, recognized Thailand's commitment to teaching Sanskrit. He commended Thai researchers Dr. Chirapat Prapandvidya and Dr. Kusuma Raksamani for their efforts towards propagating the language.
India and Thailand have a rich historical bond, and evidence of Hindu influences can be seen in Thai architecture, arts, sculpture, dance, drama, and literature. The language of the Thais also has traces of Pali and Sanskrit, which speak volumes of centuries of cultural contact.
The new MoU reiterates the two nations' resolve to protect and promote their common cultural and linguistic heritage. It provides opportunities for educational exchange, research cooperation, and greater cultural understanding, further enhancing the long-standing relationship between India and Thailand.
