Sacred relics of Lord Buddha's chief disciples return to Delhi from Mongolia; LG Ladakh hails "profoundly historic moment"
New Delhi, June 11
The sacred relics of Lord Buddha's chief disciples, Arhant Sariputra and Arhant Maudgalyayana, returned to the national capital from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, marking the conclusion of a 10-day exposition held during the auspicious Vesak celebrations.
Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena personally carried the holy relics back to India after the completion of the exposition on Wednesday. Saxena has been nominated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead the delegation for the return of the holy relics to India.
Taking on X on Wednesday, Saxena described the occasion as a spiritually significant milestone, stating, "A profoundly historic moment!"
He further said, "I am deeply honoured and privileged to bring back the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha's great disciples, from Mongolia to India, after a much-revered 10-day Exposition that coincided with the auspicious Vesak celebrations in Mongolia, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana of Lord Buddha."
Highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of the event, he added, "This sacred exposition in Mongolia was not merely a ceremonial occasion, but a spiritual bridge connecting two ancient civilisations, bound together through the timeless message of Buddha - compassion, wisdom and the ever-lasting pursuit for enlightenment."
The LG also expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the exposition. "I express my deep appreciation to the venerable monks, the Government of Mongolia, the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery, the people of Mongolia and the Embassy of India in Ulaanbaatar, for the meticulous arrangements to make this Exposition a memorable one," he said.
He further added, "I am immensely grateful to PM Narendra Modi ji, for bestowing this great honour upon me. Under his visionary leadership, the cultural, spiritual and diplomatic ties between India and Mongolia have evolved into a robust strategic partnership."
Saxena concluded his message saying, "May this momentous occasion spread the eternal message of Lord Buddha and foster global peace, harmony, and brotherhood."
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the cultural significance, I wish the government would also focus on preserving Buddhist heritage within India itself. Many ancient stupas and monasteries in Bihar and UP are in poor condition. But yes, this is a good diplomatic move with Mongolia. 👏
As someone who studied Buddhism, this is incredible. The Arhants were the Buddha's top disciples - having their relics back in India, where Buddha taught, is deeply symbolic. Hope this inspires more people to learn about the Dharma. ☸️
A beautiful example of soft power diplomacy! India-Mongolia relations have always been special, and this sacred connection only strengthens it. The Vesak celebrations in Mongolia sounded wonderful. May Lord Buddha's message of peace spread everywhere! 🕊️
Interesting how the Indian government is using Buddhist heritage to build ties with Central and East Asia. Pure political move or genuine cultural outreach? Either way, bringing back relics is positive. But let's not forget Buddhism declined in India due to neglect - we should revive it here first.
Absolutely thrilled! 🇮🇳 My grandparents were Buddhist and they always told stories about Sariputra's wisdom. To think these relics were in Mongolia and now they're back home... It's like the universe restored balance. Thank you PM Modi and LG Saxena for this sacred mission! 🙏✨
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