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India's Buddha Relics Exhibition Launched in China, Marking Historic Repatriation

India's Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, visited the historic Tiger Hill Pagoda in Suzhou, China, to mark the launch of a grand exhibition of sacred Buddha relics. The exhibition, "The Light and the Lotus," was inaugurated in India by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and features the Piprahwa gem relics repatriated after 127 years. The event in Suzhou included cultural performances and highlighted the deep cultural connections surrounding the relics. The exposition aims to popularize Buddha's teachings and deepen the youth's connection with India's rich cultural heritage.

Key Points: Buddha Relics Exhibition Launched in China After 127-Year Repatriation

  • Historic repatriation after 127 years
  • Exhibition inaugurated by PM Modi
  • Cultural diplomacy in China
  • Unification of sacred relics
2 min read

India's Consul General in Shanghai visits Tiger Hill Pagoda to mark Buddha relics exhibition launch

India's Consul General in Shanghai visits Suzhou's Tiger Hill Pagoda to mark the grand exhibition of repatriated Piprahwa Buddha relics inaugurated by PM Modi.

"This Exposition brings together the Piprahwa relics repatriated after more than a century. - Narendra Modi"

Suzhou, January 5

The Consul General of India in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, visited the Tiger Hill Pagoda in Suzhou, China, to mark the inauguration of the grand exhibition "The Light and the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One" in India, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week, said Indian embassy in Shanghai.

Tiger Hill Pagoda, located in the ancient city of Suzhou, is the oldest and largest Buddhist pagoda south of the Yangtze River. The site holds an important place in Buddhist architecture, history and art.

During the visit, the Consul General interacted with Buddhist monks and members of the local community, including Friends of India. He highlighted the return of the sacred Piprahwa Ratna of Lord Buddha to India after 127 years, calling it a moment of pride for India's spiritual and civilisational heritage.

The event also featured presentations and cultural performances based on the teachings of Lord Buddha. These performances reflected the deep cultural connect and strong resonance surrounding the Piprahwa Relics exhibition, the Indian Embassy in Shanghai added.

Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics, titled "The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One," at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex.

The exhibition marks a historic moment with the reunification of the Piprahwa gem relics of Lord Buddha, repatriated after 127 years. The display also features relics, gem relics, and reliquaries unearthed during the 1898 excavation and the subsequent 1971-1975 excavations at the Piprahwa site.

PM Modi had posted pictures from the exhibition and exhorted visitors to experience the exposition.

"This Exposition brings together: The Piprahwa relics repatriated after more than a century. Authentic relics and archaeological materials from Piprahwa that are preserved in the collections of the National Museum, New Delhi and the Indian Museum, Kolkata. This Exposition is in line with our commitment to further popularising the noble thoughts of Bhagwan Buddha. It is also an effort to further deepen the bond between our youth and our rich culture. I would also like to appreciate everyone who worked towards the repatriation of these relics," he said.

The event has drawn attention from historians, cultural enthusiasts, and Buddhist followers from across the country and abroad, showcasing India's efforts to preserve and celebrate its ancient heritage.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone interested in cultural history, this is fascinating. The Tiger Hill Pagoda is a magnificent site. It's wonderful to see such cultural diplomacy that highlights shared heritage rather than differences. More exchanges like this, please.
P
Priya S
Buddha's teachings of peace are needed now more than ever. Bringing back these relics and showcasing them to the world, especially our youth, is a brilliant initiative. Hope many schools organize trips to the exhibition.
R
Rohit P
While I appreciate the cultural significance, I hope the government is equally focused on preserving our *current* historical sites and museums. Many are in a sorry state. This grand exposition is good, but consistent upkeep is key.
V
Vikram M
Bharat's soft power is its ancient wisdom and spirituality. Showcasing this in China, at such a historic Buddhist site, sends a powerful message. Our culture is our greatest global asset. Well done to the embassy team in Shanghai!
K
Kavya N
The name of the exhibition itself is so beautiful - "The Light and the Lotus". It's heartening to see our rich Buddhist history, which is often overlooked, getting this kind of spotlight. Planning a visit to Delhi to see it!

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