The Royal Thai Embassy, New Delhi, organised the 5^th Namaste Thailand Festival 2024 EP.2 “Happy Songkran Edition” at the Royal Thai Embassy on 6 April 2024. The festival was inaugurated by H.E. Ms. Pattarat Hongtong, Ambassador of Thailand to India. The main theme of the festival is to showcase the upcoming celebration of Songkran in Thailand and the inscription of Songkran in Thailand, the traditional Thai New Year festival, on the list of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. Additionally, the festival served as an opportunity to promote various elements of Thailand such as food, culture, and tourism to Indians and foreigners residing in India.

The Royal Thai Embassy organized a mini-celebration of Songkran in Thailand for participants to experience the rich culture and traditions of Songkran in Thailand. A range of fun activities were featured to celebrate this special occasion, including bathing Buddha statues and the elders, building sand pagodas, traditional Thai dance and games, flower garland and Tung (traditional Northern Thai flag) workshops, water splashing, Thai massage, screening of the movie “Pad Thai”, and a variety of Thai food from 12 well-known vendors in New Delhi and nearby areas.

Over 2,200 visitors attended the festival, and in addition to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Royal Thai Embassy also received support from various companies who contributed to the success of presenting “Songkran in Thailand” to the Indian public. These companies include SCG International India, Global Power Synergy Company, Fortune Parts Industry, and Thai Airways International. The festival also aligns with the government’s plan to host the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024, a grand celebration of the Thai New Year, which will be a countrywide celebration lasting for 21 days. The festival is open for everyone to join in the celebrations and help safeguard and promote Thailand's rich cultural tradition. It would also strengthen the positive image of Thailand and stimulate economic growth in the country.