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PM Modi's Bhutan Visit Reveals Deep Global Connection to Buddha Relics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently reflected on his meaningful visit to Bhutan during his Mann Ki Baat radio program. He expressed how touching it was to hear Bhutanese people repeatedly thank India for sending sacred Buddha relics to their country. The Prime Minister highlighted that these relics have generated similar enthusiasm when displayed in other Buddhist nations like Russia and Mongolia. This global connection through shared spiritual heritage brings people together across international boundaries.

Key Points: PM Modi Recalls Bhutan Visit and Buddha Relics Gratitude

  • PM Modi met Bhutan's King and Prime Minister during his November 11-12 visit
  • Bhutanese expressed gratitude for India sending sacred Buddha relics
  • The relics were sent for Bhutan's Fourth King's 70th birth anniversary
  • Buddha relics have also traveled to Russia, Mongolia, Vietnam, and Thailand
  • Buddhism serves as shared heritage strengthening India-Bhutan relations
  • Global enthusiasm shows relics connect people across different nations
2 min read

'Heartwarming to see deep connection to sacred Buddha relics': PM Modi recalls Bhutan visit

PM Modi shares heartfelt reflections on Bhutan visit, highlighting global reverence for sacred Buddha relics and the special India-Bhutan spiritual bond during Mann Ki Baat.

'Heartwarming to see deep connection to sacred Buddha relics': PM Modi recalls Bhutan visit
"It is heartwarming to see such a deep connection to the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha across the world. - PM Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, Nov 30

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his reflections on his recent visit to Bhutan, highlighting how the people there expressed gratitude to India for sending sacred Buddha relics to their country -- a gesture he described as a moment of pride for him.

Addressing the 128th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', he said, "A few weeks ago, I visited Bhutan. Such trips provide opportunities for different types of interactions and discussions. During this trip, I met the King of Bhutan, the current King's father, who has also been a King himself, the Prime Minister and others. In the course of the tour, I heard everyone mention one thing; everyone was expressing gratitude to the Indians for sending Buddhist relics there… the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha. Whenever I heard that, my heart swelled with pride."

PM Modi visited Bhutan from November 11 to 12, during which he joined Bhutan king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk in seeking blessings from the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha amid a rousing welcome given by the local monks at Thimphu's Tashichhodzong.

The relics were sent for exposition as a special gesture from the people of India to Bhutan to honour the Fourth King's 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival organised by the Royal Government of Bhutan.

Buddhism is a shared heritage between India and Bhutan. A number of Bhutanese pilgrims travel to Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Sikkim, Udayagiri, Sarnath and other Buddhist sites in India.

The Prime Minister said that similar enthusiasm for the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha has been observed in many other countries.

"Just last month, these sacred relics were taken from the National Museum to Kalmykia, Russia. Buddhism holds special significance there. I was told that a large number of people, even from remote parts of Russia, came over to see them. The relics have also been taken to Mongolia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Huge enthusiasm has been witnessed everywhere. Even the King of Thailand visited to have Darshan," he said.

"It is heartwarming to see such a deep connection to the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha across the world. It gives one joy to hear how such initiatives become a medium to connect people across the world," PM Modi added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
As a Buddhist from Sikkim, I feel immense pride seeing our sacred relics being respected worldwide. This cultural diplomacy is much needed in today's world. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
A
Arjun K
While I appreciate the cultural exchange, I wish our government would show similar enthusiasm for preserving ancient Buddhist sites within India. Many monuments need better maintenance and protection.
S
Sarah B
Wonderful to see India's soft power at work! Cultural exchanges like these build lasting friendships between nations. The shared Buddhist heritage is a beautiful bridge between India and Bhutan.
V
Vikram M
Bhutan has always been our closest friend in the region. Such gestures strengthen our special relationship. More cultural exchanges like this please! 🙌
N
Nisha Z
This reminds me of our ancient tradition of cultural exchange through Buddhism. From Ashoka's time, India has shared spiritual wisdom with the world. Good to see this tradition continuing! ✨

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