Have Buddha's Sacred Relics from India Arrived in Vietnam?
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Synopsis
The arrival of Buddha's sacred relics from India to Vietnam marks a significant cultural event. This historic journey emphasizes the enduring ties between the two nations and their shared Buddhist heritage. The relics will be on display as part of the UN Vesak Day celebrations, drawing attention to the profound messages of peace and compassion.
Key Takeaways
- The arrival of Buddha's relics signifies strong cultural ties between India and Vietnam.
- The relics will be exhibited until May 21, 2025, coinciding with UN Vesak Day.
- They were ceremoniously welcomed at the Vietnam Buddhist University.
- The journey is a reminder of Buddha's teachings on peace and compassion.
- Significant participation from diplomatic and Buddhist leaders marks this occasion.
Hanoi, May 2 (NationPress) The holy relics of Buddha from India touched down in Vietnam on Friday. They were welcomed at the Vietnam Buddhist University for a ceremonial event before being paraded to Thanh Tam Pagoda, where the public exhibition of these relics is set to occur.
Earlier in the day, Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Minority Affairs, shared on social media his gratitude for leading the delegation that transported the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha to Vietnam, describing the experience as one that profoundly resonates with the soul.
“It was an honor to lead the delegation carrying the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha to Vietnam, a journey that truly touches the spirit. Alongside esteemed monks, Kandula Durgesh ji, Minister for Tourism, Culture & Cinematography of Andhra Pradesh, and other officials, we embarked on this sacred voyage of peace, compassion, and unity. The Holy Relics will be in Vietnam from May 2 to May 21, 2025, coinciding with the UN Vesak Day celebrations,” Rijiju mentioned on X.
“I paid my deep respects before embarking on this spiritually enriching journey to Vietnam, bringing with us His eternal message of peace, compassion, and unity,” he added in another post.
On Wednesday, a significant gathering of monks, bhikkhunis, diplomats, and the Sangha offered prayers and chanting to the Holy Buddha Relic within a protected area of the National Museum in New Delhi. The relic had previously arrived from Sarnath en route to Vietnam.
The Vietnamese Ambassador to India, Nguyen Thanh Hai, and the Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, Priyanga Wickramasinghe, participated in the prayers.
The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), is orchestrating the first-ever exhibition of the Sacred Buddha Relic in four cities across Vietnam to align with the UN Vesak Day festivities.
This Holy Relic is enshrined at Mulagandha Kuti Vihar in Sarnath and is believed to be older than 246 CE, having been excavated in Nagarjuna Konda, Andhra Pradesh.
India and Vietnam possess long-standing cultural and civilizational ties, with ongoing exchanges. The Buddhist connections between the two nations reflect millennia of shared history, with numerous Buddhist scholars and pilgrims regularly visiting India, including the Vietnamese Buddhist pagoda located in Bodhgaya.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the profound significance of the arrival of Buddha's relics in Vietnam. This event not only reaffirms the historical and cultural ties between India and Vietnam but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Buddhism. Our coverage aims to honor these connections while respecting the sentiments of both nations.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the sacred relics of Buddha?
The sacred relics of Buddha are believed to be physical remains or objects that are associated with the Buddha, often considered highly revered and significant in Buddhist traditions.
Where will the relics be displayed in Vietnam?
The relics will be displayed at several locations, including the Thanh Tam Pagoda, as part of the celebrations for the UN Vesak Day.
What is the historical significance of these relics?
These relics symbolize the teachings and legacy of Buddha, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Buddhism in Vietnam and beyond.
When will the relics be in Vietnam?
The Holy Relics will be in Vietnam from May 2 to May 21, 2025.
Who is leading the delegation of the relics?
The delegation carrying the relics is being led by Kiren Rijiju, the Minister of Minority Affairs in India.
