Hindus in the globalised Thai society

Hindus in Thailand, can be identified according to the various periods during which they arrived in Thailand as immigrants before and after India's independence. In the era of globalisation, Indian Hindus in transnational businesses have been working in Thailand for around 50 years and Nepalese-Burmese-Hindus who migrate to Thailand these days often work in the service sector. Hindus have managed to maintain their religio-socio-cultural identities and integrate into Thai society. They rarely mix with Thais through marriage as their ways of life differ from those of mainstream Thai society. They are not interested in politics. They focus only on their work and religion. They have worked hard and have played a big role in moving the Thai economy forward. They are well-behaved in society and have contributed in various ways. Their religion, “Hinduism”, is recognized as one of the five official religions in Thailand and they are proud to be Thai citizens. Globalisation has had its impact on aspects of the Indian Thai identity which is a challenge for many Hindus who wish to maintain their socio-cultural identity within mainstream Thai society.