Bodh gaya: The Faculty of Dentistry at Chiang Mai University (CMU) has taken a significant step in providing royal dental and healthcare services to over 200 Buddhist monks, nuns, and volunteers at the Thai Buddhist Temple in Bodh Gaya, India. This initiative was conducted on Navamindra Maharaj Day in honor of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
According to Thai News Agency, the initiative by CMU involved a team of more than 40 professionals, including dentists, doctors, medical personnel, physical therapists, and volunteers from both the public and private sectors. This team participated in the Royal Dental Unit Project from October 10-14, 2025, at Wat Thai Buddhagaya, to commemorate the anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great’s passing.
The ceremony was led by Phra Brahma Wachiraphotivong, the Head of the Dharma Missionary Line for India-Nepal and Abbot of Wat Thai Buddhagaya. Also present were Assistant Professor Dr. Narumanas Kowanit, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at CMU, Ms. Sasirith Tankulrat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ms. Chawanat Tangsamphan, Ambassador to New Delhi, along with other medical personnel and volunteers.
The Royal Dental Unit, now in its second year, offers essential dental services such as oral health examinations, fillings, tooth extractions, scaling, and oral health advice. They also provide necessary medical services, including physical examinations and therapy. These services aim to enable monks, novices, and nuns to perform their duties without the hindrance of health issues.
Dr. Narumanas Kowanit, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, highlighted the importance of Wat Thai Bodh Gaya, the first Thai temple in India, which serves as a base for Thai Buddhist missionaries and students. The temple has faced challenges with oral health problems among its residents, including toothaches and gingivitis, due to limited access to dental care in India.
In response to a request from Wat Thai Bodh Gaya in 2024, CMU organized a mobile dental unit to address these issues. The initiative, supported by Chiang Mai Dental Alumni, private clinics, hospitals, and the Thai Embassy, treated 129 patients last year.
This year, the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi emphasized the ongoing need for healthcare services and collaborated once more with CMU. Support for this year’s project included contributions from the Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, Royal Thai Air Force, and Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, ensuring the successful delivery of medical supplies and equipment to Bodh Gaya.