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Thailand, blessed with a wealth of culture and traditions,
stands out in the Southeast Asian region as a country of grace
and pride. It is a modern country firmly established in the 21st
century. Despite this, there remain examples of lifestyles that
have existed for centuries and continue to exist despite the
advent of modernity.
The culture here is heavily influenced by Buddhism and Hinduism.
Much of Thailand’s royal tradition is also rooted in Indian
culture. Visual art, though traditionally primarily Buddhist
often combines modern techniques in the contemporary time.
Literature is even from Indian connection, the primary text
being Ramakein, a Thai version of the Indian epic Ramayana. One
of the most distinctive Thai customs is the wai, which is
similar to the Indian namaste gesture. Touching someone’s head
is considered rude as head is the most respected and highest
part of the body.
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