The Prime Minister inaugurated the Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival 2026, underscoring the Thailand–India relationship through shared cultural heritage, while promoting tourism to elevate Thailand as a world-class cultural tourism destination in the global arena.
On 8 November 2026 at 17:00, at River Park Iconsiam, Bangkok, Ms. Lalida Pertwivatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the Diwali candle lighting ceremony and officially opened the Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival 2026. The event was attended by H.E. Mr. Puneet Agrawal, Ambassador of the Republic of India to Thailand; Mr. Nikorn Sajdeva, President of the Indian Association of Thailand; Ms. Thapanee Kiattipiboon, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand; along with diplomats, government and private sector representatives, the Thai-Indian community, and distinguished guests.
The Prime Minister participated in the Diwali candle lighting ceremony, a key symbol of the festival of lights, and watched the Thai–Indian cultural performance “Ramayana–Ramakien,” reflecting the longstanding cultural and civilizational connections of both countries. He then delivered the opening speech, expressing pleasure to celebrate Diwali with Indian friends and the Thai-Indian community, who have long been part of Thai society. He also highlighted the universal meaning of Diwali's light, symbolizing that light overcomes darkness, good triumphs over evil, and knowledge and hope empower people to move forward.
The Prime Minister stated that Thailand and India share deep cultural bonds. Indian civilization's influence is evident in Thai life through Buddhist teachings, the Ramayana literature inherited as the Ramakien, and the Thai language with roots in Sanskrit and Pali. These connections show that the people of both countries are closely linked as one cultural family, forming a crucial foundation for developing current bilateral relations and cooperation.
He emphasized that tourism serves as a bridge connecting Thai and Indian peoples, noting that India is among Thailand's key tourist markets. Thus, the Diwali festival is not only a celebration of Indian culture but also a significant opportunity to promote cultural tourism, foster mutual understanding and closeness among people, and demonstrate to the global community Thailand's potential as a welcoming, open destination embracing all cultures and religions.
At the event's conclusion, the Prime Minister thanked all parties involved in beautifully organizing the Diwali festival. He noted that the event is not only a celebration of Indian culture but also a symbol of the strong friendship between Thailand and India. He wished that the light of Diwali would bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to the peoples of both countries before officially declaring the opening of the Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival 2026 and joining distinguished guests in a countdown to celebrate the festival of lights.
The Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office stated that the government prioritizes promoting international relations through cultural and tourism dimensions, which are key mechanisms linking peoples, fostering mutual understanding, and creating economic opportunities. This Diwali festival is another opportunity to showcase Thailand’s image as a diverse cultural tourism destination and to strengthen the friendship between Thailand and India.
