Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir To Get Soil From Thailand; Unravelling The Significance Of This Sacred Exchange

The completion of Ayodhya's Ram Temple is eagerly anticipated across the nation, with a grand opening scheduled for 2024. As reported by news18, there's a special gesture preceding the temple's inauguration as soil from Thailand is to be sent to Ramjanmabhoomi.

Susheelkumar Saraff, the president of Thailand's Vishwa Hindu Parishad said, 'We've sent water from two Thai rivers for Prabhu Shri Ram’s temple, and now we're sending soil. The cultural ties between Thailand and India run deep, and this exchange will only fortify them. Govind Brij Maharaj is here, and we'll be entrusting him with the soil to carry it to Ayodhya.' This sacred exchange underscores the significance of Lord Ram in Thailand.

Lord Ram’s Significance In Thailand

In Thailand, (street food of Thailand) the Thai rendition of the Ramayana is called the Ramakein or Ramakirti. This epic tale has not only been embraced but also woven into the fabric of Thai art, literature, dance, theatre, and even the architectural marvels of temples and palaces. Beyond being a cultural integration, Thailand's reverence for the narrative of Lord Ram is rooted in the shared historical and cultural bonds between ancient India and Thailand. The influence of Hindu-Buddhist traditions has been intricately woven into Thailand's religious landscape since at least the 11th century.

श्री राम जन्मभूमि मंदिर निर्माण कार्य - प्रथम तल

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir Construction - First Floor pic.twitter.com/6mqAEftXd2

— Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra (@ShriRamTeerth) November 27, 2023

King Rama VI, also known as Vajiravudh, played a pivotal role in bringing Ramakien to prominence in Thailand. Upon delving into its origins, researchers discovered that the narrative draws inspiration from sacred Hindu texts, namely the Vishnu Purana, Valmiki’s Ramayana, and the Hanuman Nataka. These three texts hold deep significance for followers of Hinduism. King Rama VI's efforts elevated Ramakien, (facts about Ramakien) showcasing its interconnectedness with revered Hindu scriptures.

Don't Miss:Powerful Mantras To Please Lord Rama For His Blessings

Ayutthaya, The Thai Capital Of Rama Kings

Ayutthaya, situated in central Thailand, approximately 55 miles north of Bangkok, holds the historical and architectural legacy of the Tai state of Ayutthaya. This town is renowned for its vast array of temples and significant structures, signifying its historical importance. The name 'Ayutthaya' reflects the profound influence of Hinduism in the region and is intricately linked to 'Ramakien,' the Thai rendition of The Ramayan. The city was named by King Ramathibodi, also known as U-Thong, who served as the inaugural monarch of the Ayutthaya kingdom.

The Thai Kingship incorporated numerous socio-political elements rooted in Vedic Hindu concepts and Theravada Buddhism. This influence is evident in the name of King Ramathibodi, where both 'Rama' and 'Bodhi' are present, reflecting a fusion of these cultural and religious influences. Royal rituals, conducted by Brahmin Priests, were based on Hindu Vedic scriptures. The religious-political ideology adopted by the Royal household mirrored that embodied by Lord Rama as depicted in the Ramayana. In this context, Thailand's profound religious ties with India are deeply ingrained.

Don't Miss: Who Was Devi Shanta? This Is Her Relationship With The Epic Of Ramayana

Furthermore, numerous symbols of Hinduism bear a striking resemblance to the symbols of ministries in Thailand. Prominent among them are the idols of Shri Ganesh, Garuda ji, and Brahma ji, serving as key symbols in Thai ministries. This cultural convergence highlights the enduring influence and presence of Hindu symbolism in Thailand's cultural and administrative spheres.