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Design of the mascot for the Thailand Pavilion has been inspired by the mythical giant Indrajit, a traditional iconic figure with a fierce gaze who stands sentinel at temple entrances. The World Expo version, however, is a cute child-giant who beams with friendliness, cheerfulness with an air of courtesy, that is characteristic of the Thai people.
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The mascot is called “Tai”, a name that relates to the etymological root of “Thai” (liberty and independence) and a Chinese word meaning “great”.
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Tai will take his place at strategic points within the pavilion, greeting visitors with his cheerful smile, very much like the friendly people of Thailand – the land of the free.
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Tai’s skin is in green -- the colour signifying a fertile land -- and his big round eyes mirror kindness and compassion, the moral qualities of a happy Thai.
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His smiles, always spontaneous and genuine, are full of warmth and friendship to all, exemplifying what is known today as the Thai Smile.
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The big stick he holds is a magical wand that can morph into powerful weapons or genies that would bring about victory or fulfillment of wishes.
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