PM Modi Inaugurates Historic Piprahwa Buddha Relics Exposition in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a grand exposition of the sacred Piprahwa relics, directly connected to Bhagwan Buddha. The event marks the first time these repatriated relics are displayed alongside related archaeological materials from national museums. Discovered in 1898, the relics are linked to ancient Kapilavastu, where Buddha spent his early life. The exposition underscores India's civilizational links to Buddhism and the government's commitment to preserving spiritual heritage.

Key Points: Piprahwa Buddha Relics Expo: PM Modi Inaugurates Historic Display

  • Historic Piprahwa relics on display
  • Repatriated after over a century
  • Linked to ancient Kapilavastu
  • Part of PM's cultural heritage push
2 min read

"Profound moment in reconnecting India with its timeless Buddhist heritage": Kiren Rijiju as PM Modi set to inaugurate Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics

PM Modi inaugurates the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics, a historic event reconnecting India with its Buddhist heritage.

"A profound moment in reconnecting India with its timeless Buddhist heritage. - Kiren Rijiju"

New Delhi, January 2

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics related to Bhagwan Buddha, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday called it a "profound moment" in reconnecting India with its "timeless Buddhist heritage".

In a post on X, Kiren Rijju wrote,"Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji will inaugurate "The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One", the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics related to Bhagwan Buddha, on 3rd January, 2026 at Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi. Discovered in 1898, these relics are among the earliest & most historically significant deposits directly connected to Bhagwan Buddha & are closely linked to ancient Kapilavastu. A profound moment in reconnecting India with its timeless Buddhist heritage."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics related to Bhagwan Buddha, titled "The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One", on 3rd January, 2026 at around 11 AM at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi.

The Exposition brings together, for the first time, the Piprahwa relics repatriated after more than a century with authentic relics and archaeological materials from Piprahwa that are preserved in the collections of the National Museum, New Delhi, and the Indian Museum, Kolkata.

Discovered in 1898, the Piprahwa relics hold a central place in the archaeological study of early Buddhism. These are among the earliest and most historically significant relic deposits directly connected to Bhagwan Buddha. Archaeological evidence links the Piprahwa site to ancient Kapilavastu, widely identified as the place where Bhagwan Buddha spent his early life before renunciation.

The exposition highlights India's deep and continuing civilizational link with the teachings of Bhagwan Buddha and reflects the Prime Minister's commitment to preserving India's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The recent repatriation of these relics has been achieved through sustained government effort, institutional cooperation and innovative public-private partnership.

- ANI

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S
Sarah B
As someone interested in archaeology, this is fascinating. The Piprahwa discovery in 1898 was monumental. Having them back on Indian soil for a public exhibition is wonderful for students and historians. Hope the exposition travels to other cities too!
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Vikram M
While preserving heritage is important, I hope the focus remains on the universal teachings of peace and compassion that Buddha stood for, rather than just a political or cultural showcase. The message is more important than the relics.
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Priya S
Jai Bhim! This is a great initiative. Buddha's teachings of equality and rejecting caste are more relevant than ever. Glad to see this part of our shared history being highlighted. Will definitely visit with my family.
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Rohit P
Good step by the government. India is the birthplace of Buddhism and we should be the global custodians of its heritage. This also helps tourism and shows our soft power. But the maintenance of the exhibition site must be top-notch.
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Kavya N
The title "The Light & the Lotus" is so beautiful and apt. It's heartening to see artifacts linked to Kapilavastu, the place of Buddha's early life, being brought together. Hope they create a virtual tour for those who can't travel to Delhi.

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