PM Inaugurates Sacred Piprahwa Relics in Global Buddhist Exposition

India has taken an important step in showcasing its ancient spiritual heritage with the inauguration of a global-level Buddhist exhibition. The exposition brings together rare and historically significant relics linked to Bhagwan Buddha, offering visitors insight into early Buddhism and India’s cultural legacy. The event reflects the country’s continued focus on preserving heritage while sharing it with the world.

Why in the News?

Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics in New Delhi. The exhibition displays rare Buddhist relics connected to Bhagwan Buddha, many of which were recently repatriated to India.

About the Piprahwa Relics

• The Piprahwa relics, discovered in 1898, are among the earliest archaeological remains directly associated with Bhagwan Buddha.
• These relics are of immense historical and religious importance in the study of early Buddhism. Archaeological evidence links Piprahwa with ancient Kapilavastu, believed to be the place where Buddha spent his early life before renunciation.
• This connection makes the relics central to understanding Buddha’s life and the spread of Buddhism.

Highlights of the Grand Exposition

• Titled “The Light and the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, the exposition is being held at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi.
• For the first time, the exhibition brings together Piprahwa relics preserved at the National Museum and the Indian Museum.
• Visitors can explore different sections related to the life, teachings, and legacy of Lord Buddha.

Cultural and Civilizational Significance

• The exposition highlights India’s deep civilizational links with Buddhism, which originated in the subcontinent and spread across Asia.
• It reflects India’s role as the spiritual homeland of Buddhism and strengthens cultural diplomacy.
• The event also aligns with the Prime Minister’s emphasis on promoting India’s soft power through heritage, spirituality, and shared Asian cultural traditions.

Repatriation and Preservation Efforts (Static Part)

• The recent repatriation of the Piprahwa relics after more than a century is the result of sustained government efforts, institutional cooperation, and public-private partnerships.
• Cultural repatriation is an important part of India’s heritage policy, aimed at bringing back artefacts of historical significance.
• Such efforts not only preserve national heritage but also make it accessible to scholars, devotees, and the general public.

Key Summary At Glance

Aspect	Details
Why in News?	Inauguration of Piprahwa relics exposition
Inaugurated By	Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Exhibition Title	The Light and the Lotus
Location	Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi
Relics Discovered	1898
Historical Link	Ancient Kapilavastu

Question

Q. The Piprahwa relics are closely associated with which historical site?

A. Lumbini
B. Sarnath
C. Kapilavastu
D. Kushinagar