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Key Points

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju led a high-level Indian delegation to Vietnam, bringing sacred Buddha relics for a significant spiritual exposition. Over two lakh devotees participated in the ceremonial event, highlighting the deep cultural connections between India and Vietnam. The relics will be displayed across multiple Vietnamese cities until May 21, 2025, as part of the UN Vesak Day celebrations. This gesture symbolizes the enduring civilizational and spiritual bonds between the two nations, emphasizing peace and shared Buddhist heritage.

Key Points: Kiren Rijiju Brings Buddha Relics to Vietnam's Sacred Exposition

  • Spiritual delegation led by Rijiju shares Buddha's sacred relics
  • Over two lakh people attend religious exposition
  • Buddhist ties strengthened between India and Vietnam
  • Sacred Bodhi Tree sapling planted at Vietnam Buddhist University
2 min read

Over two lakh people visit holy Buddha relic exposition in Vietnam

India's Buddhist heritage celebrated as over 200,000 devotees honor sacred relics during UN Vesak Day commemorations in Vietnam

"The Holy Relics will be in Vietnam from May 2-21 2025 for UN Vesak Day celebrations - Kiren Rijiju"

Hanoi, May 3

The holy Buddha relic exposition witnessed a sea of devotees on Saturday, with lakhs of devotees lining up since early morning to pay homage to Lord Buddha.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Saturday visited the Truc Lam Buddhist Monastery, reaffirming the deep-rooted spiritual connection between India and Vietnam through the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha.

The Minister, who led the high-level Indian delegation to the country with the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha, arrived at Dalat city on Saturday.

On Friday, Rijiju, joined by Andhra Pradesh Minister Kandula Durgesh, monks and senior officials accompanying the Sacred Relics from Sarnath, was warmly received by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and other officials, reflecting the profound and shared spiritual values that unite both nations.

“Arrived in Vietnam leading the high level Indian delegation with the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha. Grand ceremonial reception was accorded by the Government of Vietnam and Vietnam Buddhist Sanghas. The Holy Relics will be in Vietnam from May 2-21 2025 for UN Vesak Day celebrations," the minister said in a post.

Rijiju also paid floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Ho Chi Minh City commemorating the values of peace, non-violence, and unity propounded by the Father of the Nation. He said the arrival of Buddha's Holy Relics has brought tremendous spiritual joy amongst the people of Vietnam.

Following ceremonial prayers, the holy relics were reverently enshrined at Thanh Tam Monastery. In a symbolic gesture of peace and friendship, a Sacred Bodhi Tree sapling from India was also planted at the Vietnam Buddhist University. A joint press conference was held by the Indian delegation and leaders of the Vietnamese Sangha, where Rijiju conveyed a heartfelt message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India.

The Government of Vietnam expressed its sincere gratitude for the sacred gesture, which stands as a symbol of the enduring civilisational and spiritual ties between the two countries.

The holy relics are being exhibited with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the National Museum of India, and the International Buddha Confederation. They will be displayed to the public in Ho Chi Minh City until May 7, 2025, before continuing to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21, 2025.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul S.
This is such a beautiful gesture of cultural diplomacy! 🙏 India sharing Buddha's relics with Vietnam strengthens our ancient ties. It's heartwarming to see lakhs of devotees paying respects - shows how Buddha's message transcends borders. More such exchanges please!
P
Priya M.
While I appreciate this spiritual exchange, I hope our government is equally focused on preserving Buddhist heritage sites within India. Many ancient stupas and monasteries in Bihar and UP need better maintenance. International outreach is good, but domestic care matters too.
A
Amit K.
Vietnam has always been a friend to India. This Buddha relic exposition is another golden chapter in our relationship. The planting of Bodhi tree sapling is a particularly touching gesture - may it grow as strong as our bilateral ties! 🇮🇳🤝🇻🇳
S
Sangeeta R.
As someone who visited Vietnam last year, I can say their respect for Indian culture is remarkable. Their Buddhist temples are so well maintained. This event will surely bring our countries closer. Maybe next time they can bring some Vietnamese artifacts to display in India too?
V
Vikram J.
The combination of Buddha's relics and Gandhiji's bust is perfect - both taught peace and non-violence. In today's troubled world, we need these reminders more than ever. Hope the visitors carry these messages back to their homes and communities.
N
Neha P.
Wonderful initiative! But I wish common people like us could also get opportunities to accompany such delegations. These relics belong to all Indians, not just officials and monks. Maybe next time include some public lottery system for devotees to join? Just a thought!

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