Thailand Begins 27-Day Diwali Celebrations, Highlights Cultural Ties With India

Thailand has launched 27 days of Diwali celebrations across Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inaugurating the Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival 2026 in Bangkok on Sunday, November 8. The celebrations aim to showcase India's cultural diversity, strengthen bilateral ties and attract more Indian tourists.

The Indian Embassy in Thailand described it as the longest Diwali celebration outside India. Anutin presided over a candle-lighting ceremony at River Park, ICONSIAM, before formally opening the festival. Indian Ambassador Puneet Agrawal, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool attended the event.

An Indian cultural troupe performed Kuchipudi, a classical dance form from Andhra Pradesh. In his address, Anutin highlighted Diwali's message of light overcoming darkness and good triumphing over evil. He also referred to India's historical influence on Thai culture through Buddhism, Sanskrit, Pali and the Ramakien, Thailand's version of the Ramayana.

The festival, being held for the fifth consecutive year, runs from November 3 to 29 and features seven celebrations across three destinations. Attractions include diya-lighting ceremonies, riverside fireworks, Bollywood performances, Indian food festivals, Rangoli displays and festive markets. Bangkok's Little India neighbourhood will also host celebrations from November 20 to 24.

According to Thailand's Tourism Authority, the festival is part of efforts to strengthen cultural and tourism connections with India ahead of the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027.

Thailand expects to welcome 2.5 million Indian visitors and generate at least 90 billion baht (approximately $2.67 billion) in tourism revenue in 2026.