Will Buddha’s Holy Relics Make History in Russia’s Kalmykia Republic?
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Synopsis
In a historic first, the Holy Relics of the Buddha will journey from India to Russia's Kalmykia Republic for an unprecedented exposition. Accompanied by esteemed monks, this event promises to unite the Buddhist community in prayer and reverence from September 24 to 28, marking a significant cultural exchange.
Key Takeaways
- The Holy Relics of the Buddha will travel to Kalmykia for the first time.
- The exposition will take place from September 24 to 28.
- A high-level delegation of monks will accompany the relics.
- The event aims to strengthen cultural ties between India and Russia.
- Significant agreements will be signed during the forum.
New Delhi, Sep 22 (NationPress) The Holy Relics of the Buddha from the National Museum in New Delhi are set to embark on a historic journey to Russia's Kalmykia Republic for their inaugural exposition, commencing on September 24, as confirmed by an official from the Ministry of Culture.
A distinguished delegation comprising senior Indian and international monks will accompany the Holy Relics to bless and facilitate prayers for the largely Buddhist community in the region, the official stated.
The sacred items will be transported with utmost respect, escorted by senior monks under strict religious protocols, using a special aircraft from the Indian Air Force to reach Kalmykia.
This unique exposition, organized for the first time by the Ministry in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the National Museum, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), will take place during the 3rd International Buddhist Forum in Elista, the capital of Russia's Kalmykia Republic, from September 24-28.
The Forum, themed 'Buddhism in the New Millennium', will prominently feature Shakyamuni’s Sacred Relics from India, alongside four exhibitions organized by IBC and the National Museum, and three special academic lectures.
The Relics will be enshrined at the principal Buddhist monastery in Elista, known as the Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, also referred to as the 'Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha'.
This monastery is a pivotal Tibetan Buddhist center that opened to the public in 1996, nestled amidst the vast Kalmyk steppe.
Previously, a high-level monk delegation from Kalmykia visited India to request the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, and the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, to bring the sacred Relics back to their hometown for worship and blessings.
The Indian delegation will be led by Keshav Prasad Maurya, the Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, along with other officials accompanying the Holy Relics.
The IBC delegation, led by the Director General, will feature H.H. 43rd Sakya Trizin Rinpoche, Head of the Sakya Order of Tibetan Buddhism, H.E. 13th Kundeling Taktsak Rinpoche, from Drepung Gomang Monastery, and H.E. 7th Yongzin Ling Rinpoche, along with 17 other senior monks. The three foremost venerables from India will conduct a Blessing Session for local devotees.
During this event, two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will also be signed, one between the Central Spiritual Administration of Buddhist Russia and the International Buddhist Confederation, and another with Nalanda University.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the profound cultural significance of this event. The journey of the Holy Relics to Kalmykia not only strengthens the ties between India and Russia but also reaffirms the importance of preserving and promoting Buddhism globally. Such initiatives foster understanding and respect among diverse cultures.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Holy Relics of the Buddha?
The Holy Relics of the Buddha are sacred remains or items attributed to the Buddha, which are revered by Buddhists as symbols of his teachings and spiritual presence.
When and where will the exposition take place?
The exposition will take place from September 24 to 28 in Elista, the capital of Russia's Kalmykia Republic.
Who is accompanying the Holy Relics to Kalmykia?
A high-level delegation of senior Indian and international monks will accompany the Holy Relics to bless and facilitate prayers for the local Buddhist community.
What is the significance of the Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery?
The Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery is a major Tibetan Buddhist center in Kalmykia, known as the 'Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha', which plays a crucial role in the spiritual life of the local Buddhist population.
What agreements will be signed during the event?
Two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed, one between the Central Spiritual Administration of Buddhist Russia and the International Buddhist Confederation, and another with Nalanda University.
