In a significant step toward promoting India’s spiritual heritage and diplomacy, the Government of India has announced that the sacred relics of Lord Buddha will be sent to Russia’s Kalmykia Republic for the first-ever public exposition. The event, to be held in Elista, the capital of Kalmykia, will run from October 11 to 18, aiming to bless the local Buddhist population and strengthen spiritual and cultural connections.
Cultural and Religious Importance
Origin of the Relics
- The relics, preserved at the National Museum in New Delhi, are believed to date back to the time of the Shakyamuni Buddha and are among the most venerated in Buddhist traditions.
- They were excavated from Piprahwa in Uttar Pradesh—an archaeological site linked to the ancient kingdom of Kapilavastu.
Why Kalmykia?
- Kalmykia stands out as the only Buddhist-majority region in Europe.
- Its people, predominantly followers of Tibetan Buddhism, have been revitalizing their spiritual institutions after decades of Soviet-era suppression.
- Hosting Buddha’s relics is seen as a moment of deep cultural pride and spiritual rejuvenation for the local population.
Delegation and Ceremonial Plans
Indian Representation
- A high-level delegation from India, including 11 senior Buddhist monks, will accompany the relics.
- This team is led by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, reflecting the importance India places on this international religious outreach.
- Prominent monks expected to participate include the 43rd Sakya Trizin Rinpoche, 13th Kundeling Taktsak Rinpoche, and the 7th Yongzin Ling Rinpoche.
- These spiritual leaders will conduct discourses, blessings, and community engagements throughout the week-long event.
MoU Signing
- A Memorandum of Understanding is expected to be signed between the Central Spiritual Administration of Buddhists and the International Buddhist Confederation.
- This will formalize cooperation in spiritual education, exchanges, and preservation of Buddhist heritage.
- The event is jointly organized by India’s Ministry of Culture, the National Museum, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).
Static Facts
- Discovery site of the relics: Piprahwa, Uttar Pradesh (1898)
- Discoverer: William Peppe (British colonial-era archaeologist)
- Custodian of the relics: National Museum, New Delhi
- Only Buddhist-majority region in Europe: Kalmykia, Russia
- Religious head monastery in Kalmykia: Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery