HINDU SAMAJ commemorates 100th anniversary with Ganga Aarti Ceremony.

On 5 April 2025, the Hindu Samaj made history by organising a Ganga Aarti Ceremony at the Royal Thai Navy Hall and the banks of the Chao Phraya River for their 100th anniversary. The Ganga Aarti is a ceremonial puja which harbours roots in Hinduism and many tourists and pilgrims, alike, flock from across the world to one of the three holy cities in India where the Ganga Aarti takes place every evening: Hrishikesh, Haridwar, and Varanasi.

The Hindu Samaj brought this age-old tradition, performed at the banks of the holy river, to Bangkok and showcased a piece of Hinduism’s storied history to celebrate the centennial anniversary of Shri Dev Mandir. Beautifully framed against the majestic Wat Arun, the Ganga Aarti was well-attended by people from all walks of life. Amongst the attendees were Thai-Indian families, local Thai friends, spirituality seekers, esteemed dignitaries, and cultural devotees.

What ties this vibrant community of people together? Devotion, harmony, and heritage. The Ganga Aarti is traditionally carried out while facing the river while traditional Hindu pandits (priests) chant Sanskrit mantras and offer light through multi-tiered oil lamps. This ritual symbolises a bridge between heaven and earth, and purification as you detach from worldly possessions. It is a symbolic tribute to the goddess of rivers, Ganga, who is the protector of life. Similarly, the Chao Phraya River has nourished the Thai people for centuries.

The Hindu Samaj hosting the Ganga Aarti at the banks of the Chao Phraya River is significant, as it strengthens the relationship between Thailand and India, promoting multiculturalism and religious harmony. Ultimately, this ceremony does not just celebrate Mother Ganga but also the century of spirituality, guidance, service, and community that Shri Dev Mandir has provided to the Thai-Indian community since 1925.