Explore photos taken by ‘Samatcha Apaisuwan,’ an independent artist who is passionate about documentary photography. Vivid faces, colorful ways of life, and sacred temples tucked away in the narrow lanes of Bangkok’s Little India represent a mosaic that bridges the soulful essence of India and Siam.
To offer a fresh cultural experience during the Diwali Festival, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, in collaboration with the Phra Nakhon District Office, presents “At the Heart of Faith: A Portrait of Bangkok’s Indian Community” photography exhibition. This event features the compelling work of Samatcha Apaisuwan, who has left behind the advertising world to pursue his passion as an independent street photographer. His lens has captured vibrant scenes of life, firm faith, and enduring connection among Indians – from their days back in India to their time as immigrants in Bangkok – or the fascinating elements that have now established Pahurat as a multicultural attraction.
Samatcha blends highlights from his acclaimed exhibition “Connect: From Bharat to Siam,” a tribute to India’s spirit captured during his winter travels years ago during Bangkok Design Week 2025, with new impressive photographs of Pahurat, where sacred sites, community life, and locals bring vibrancy to this multicultural neighborhood and echo the scenes he once encountered in India.
Most of Samatcha’s photographs were taken across cities in Rajasthan, northwestern India—particularly Jaipur, as well as smaller towns like Nawalgarh and Mandawa in the Shekhawati region, renowned worldwide as an “Open-Air Art Gallery.” Through his lens, the artist captures the essence of India’s urban charm and morning markets, the diversity of its people, and the exquisite architecture of havelis—the grand mansions of prosperous merchants that are adorned with vividly painted murals.
Though not directly centered on the Diwali Festival, Samatcha’s new exhibition beautifully reflects its essence. His distinctive photographic approach – guided by color, composition, and emotion in the moment -often plays with light and shadow, the very heart of Diwali. Morning scenes of Indian life, eyes filled with faith, and children’s radiant smiles amid modest surroundings evoke “the light of hope” and “the triumph of spirit,” which truly resonate with the festival’s enduring messages.
This open-air art exhibition interestingly invites visitors to explore six photographic concepts scattered across Pahurat on foot. The experience uniquely bridges cultural celebration and artistic expression, transforming this year’s Diwali into more than just a festive occasion—it becomes a journey of discovery, reflection, and appreciation of the community’s rich cultural tapestry.
Come embark on a journey to discover six photographic installations in “At the Heart of Faith: A Portrait of Bangkok’s Indian Community” by Samatcha Apaisuwan, spread across Pahurat and Khlong Ong Ang areas. Held as part of the Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival 2025, this event will run from 16 October to 5 November 2025 – coinciding with Loy Krathong and the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Sahib, the founding Guru of Sikhism – and is open daily from 4 PM to 8 PM.. Follow Samatcha Apaisuwan’s work at:
- FB: https://www.facebook.com/samatchaphoto/
- IG: https://www.instagram.com/samatchaphoto
- Website: https://samatchaapaisuwan.com/
