Bhubaneswar, 16 April 2025 — In a beautiful celebration that united hearts, cultures, and flavors, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Kolkata in collaboration with the Lyfe Hotel in Bhubaneswar, proudly co-organized the “Thai Food Festival in Odisha 2025”. This event was a feast for the senses, celebrating Thailand’s rich culinary heritage and the joyful spirit of the Songkran Festival—the traditional New Year cherished by both Thais and Odias. Diners savour world-renowned Thai delights such as Som Tam (green papaya salad), Tom Yam Kung (spicy prawn soup), Gang Keaw Wan Kai (Green Curry Chicken), Pad Thai, Tod Mun Kung (Crispy Thai Shrimp Cake), and more —all crafted with love and artistry by the talented Chef Sara Panisara.

“This Thai Food Festival is more than just a feast. It’s a celebration of culture, friendship, and the beautiful bond between Thailand and India, brought alive through delicious food and the festive spirit of the Songkran Festival” said Ms. Siriporn Tantipanyathep, Consul-General of Thailand in Kolkata.

The festival aimed to strengthen people-to-people connections between Thailand and Odisha through the exchange of culinary cultures. It was also a vibrant celebration of the traditional New Year—Songkran in Thailand and Pana Sankranti in Odisha—both falling during the same period and reflecting the shared cultural affinity.

Consul-General Siriporn warmly invites the people of Odisha to experience the magic of Thailand during the Songkran Festival, which has recently been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. She also highlighted the ease of travel with direct flights between Bhubaneswar and Bangkok operated by IndiGo, along with the visa exemption scheme for Indian tourists by the Royal Thai Government—making it simpler than ever to explore the Land of Smiles.

Adding a spiritual touch to the festivities, the Consulate-General organizes the traditional bathing ceremony of the Lord Buddha statue, symbolizing the washing away of past misfortunes and welcoming the new year with hopes of prosperity and good fortune. This ritual holds deep significance in both Thai and Hindu cultures, as Lord Buddha is revered as one of the avatars of Lord Krishna, fostering a profound spiritual connection.

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