PM Modi Highlights Thai Devotee's Lifelong Ganesha Devotion
During Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi highlighted the incredible journey of Shriman Panthoun Thirkhanon, a Thai devotee dedicated to Lord Ganesha for 40 years.
In a moving segment of his recent Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a powerful story of how Indian faith and cultural traditions are resonating far beyond the country's borders. He specifically highlighted the life of Shriman Panthoun Thirkhanon, a dedicated devotee from Thailand who has spent over four decades worshipping Lord Ganesha.
A Spiritual Journey Sparked by a Gift
The Prime Minister recounted how Thirkhanon’s profound connection to the deity began when he was just 19 years old. At that time, his father gifted him a photograph of Lord Ganesha, an act that awakened a deep sense of spiritual devotion within him. In Thailand, the deity is revered as "Phra Phikanet," and Thirkhanon has dedicated his life to studying the various traditions associated with the God of wisdom and auspicious beginnings.
PM Modi noted that this devotion is not limited to India, stating: "Deep reverence for Him exists not only in India; take the example of Shriman Panthoun Thirkhanon ji - he hails from Thailand."
Bringing Ashtavinayak to Thailand
Thirkhanon’s passion has led him on extensive travels across various Asian nations, including Nepal and India. The Prime Minister pointed out his special bond with the Indian state of Maharashtra, a region famous for its grand Ganesh Utsav celebrations. After immersing himself in the traditions of the Ashtavinayak yatra, Thirkhanon worked to make these sacred traditions accessible to people in his home country.
Key highlights of his contributions include:
- The Ganesha Himal Museum: Established in 2002 in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, this museum serves as a spiritual hub.
- Massive Collection: The museum houses more than 10,000 idols of Ganesha, providing a sacred space for worship.
- Spreading the Ashtavinayak Tradition: By housing Ashtavinayak idols, he has enabled devotees in Thailand to participate in the tradition without needing to travel to India.
- Weekly Rituals: Regular worship rituals are conducted every Sunday morning, along with special celebrations on significant Ganesha-related occasions.
India's Global Cultural Footprint
Reflecting on the recent Ganesh Utsav celebrations across India, the Prime Minister emphasized that the joy and exuberance of the festival are being mirrored globally. He used Thirkhanon's life as a prime example of how India's art, faith, and cultural heritage are gaining immense popularity and finding a permanent home in the hearts of people worldwide.
"This demonstrates how India's faith, art, and cultural traditions are gaining popularity in other countries as well," the Prime Minister remarked, concluding with a wish that the blessings of Ganpati Bappa remain with everyone always.