How did Bhutan bid farewell to the holy Buddha relics?
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Synopsis
In a poignant ceremony held on November 25, Bhutan said goodbye to the sacred Lord Buddha relics from India. Esteemed leaders, including the King and Prime Minister, participated in this traditional farewell, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural ties and respect between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Significant cultural event highlighting India-Bhutan relations.
- Involvement of high-profile dignitaries reflects the importance of the occasion.
- Relics symbolize peace and mutual respect between the two nations.
- Traditional prayers played a key role in the farewell ceremony.
- Strengthening bilateral ties through shared values and cultural appreciation.
Thimphu, Nov 25 (NationPress) On Tuesday morning, Bhutan gracefully said goodbye to the revered Lord Buddha relics from India, which had been enshrined at the Grand Kuenray Hall in Thimphu, through a series of traditional prayers and ceremonies.
This significant event was graced by Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Bhutan's Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, the Laytshog Lopen of the Central Monastic Body, along with Bhutan's Home and Health Ministers and esteemed monks from both India and Bhutan.
Rijiju shared on X, stating, "The sacred Buddha Relics that have been housed at the Grand Kuenray Hall since November 8, 2025, received a heartfelt farewell this morning. The ceremony was attended by His Majesty the King, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, the Laytshog Lopen, and other dignitaries."
The relics, displayed at the Grand Kuenray Hall in Tashichhodzong, were sent to Bhutan as a special tribute from the Indian populace, commemorating the 70th birthday of the Fourth King and the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
Upon his arrival in Bhutan on Monday, Rijiju led the delegation responsible for returning the sacred relics to India after their public exhibition in the neighboring country.
During his visit, the Union Minister also met with King Wangchuck, delivering warm regards from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressing appreciation for the reverence the Bhutanese people have shown towards the holy Buddha relics.
Rijiju noted, "His Majesty the King expressed his gratitude for the exhibition of the Holy Buddha Relics in Thimphu and acknowledged the timely visit of the Indian Prime Minister earlier this month."
Additionally, Rijiju met with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay to discuss the enduring strength of India–Bhutan relations and the shared values that bind the two nations.
After their discussion, Rijiju tweeted, "It was a pleasure meeting Dasho Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of Bhutan. Our conversation reinforced the depth of friendship between India and Bhutan, and I was deeply moved by Bhutan's sincere respect for the Holy Buddha Relics, which inspire harmony and connection between our peoples."
Point of View
I view this event as a profound representation of the enduring ties between Bhutan and India. The respectful farewell of the Buddha relics not only underscores the cultural significance but also enhances the shared values that both nations cherish. Such ceremonies foster a deeper understanding and reinforce the mutual respect we have for one another.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Buddha relics in Bhutan?
The Buddha relics symbolize peace, reverence, and the deep cultural ties between Bhutan and India, celebrated through traditional ceremonies.
Who attended the farewell ceremony for the Buddha relics?
The ceremony was attended by key figures including the King of Bhutan, Prime Minister, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, and revered monks from both nations.
Why were the relics sent from India to Bhutan?
The relics were sent as a tribute to honor the Fourth King's 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by Bhutan.
When were the Buddha relics enshrined in Bhutan?
The Buddha relics were enshrined at the Grand Kuenray Hall in Thimphu on November 8, 2025.
What did the Union Minister convey during his visit?
The Union Minister conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed gratitude for the reverence shown towards the relics by the Bhutanese people.
