Did Holy Buddha Relics from India Find a New Home in Vietnam?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Holy Buddha Relics from India have found their way to Vietnam and the reverent reception they received. This historical moment highlights the deep cultural ties between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- The Holy Buddha Relics symbolize spiritual connection between India and Vietnam.
- Thousands gathered to participate in solemn processions.
- The relics will remain in Vietnam until June 2.
- Significant cultural ties were highlighted during this event.
- Local communities showed deep reverence and support.
Hanoi, May 23 (NationPress) The Holy Buddha Relics that were sent from India have been ceremoniously enshrined at the historic Phuc Son Pagoda located in Bac Giang Province of Vietnam, this past Friday. The local community, government officials, and monks received the relics with profound respect and warmth.
"A large number of individuals in Bac Giang participated in a solemn procession to escort the sacred Holy Sarnath Relics of the Buddha to Phuc Son Pagoda, Vietnam — a demonstration of deep respect for the compassionate figure, Shakyamuni Buddha," shared the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) on X.
In response to a formal appeal made by the Vietnamese government, following a recommendation from the Committee for Ethnic and Religious Affairs, the Government of India has agreed to extend the period during which these sacred relics will be enshrined in Vietnam beyond May 21, as reported by local media on Friday.
Reports indicated that the relics, initially set to return to India on Friday, will now remain in Vietnam until June 2, following a direct request from Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính to his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting their profound cultural and religious significance to Vietnamese Buddhists.
On Wednesday, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha were enshrined at the renowned Bai Dinh Pagoda located in Ninh Binh Province. Many devotees, including provincial leaders, gathered to welcome the relics as monks from both India and Vietnam recited traditional prayers.
"Memorable moments were shared at the exposition of the Holy Sarnath Relics of the Buddha at Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam. From the elderly to young children, individuals eagerly assembled to pay their respects and witness the sacred relics with their own eyes. Equally touching was the dedication of volunteers, service teams, security personnel, and food providers—who ensured a smooth and respectful experience for all devotees," noted the IBC.
Thousands have also honored the relics at the exposition in Tam Chuc Pagoda.
The holy relics were transported from India on May 2 by a delegation led by Kiren Rijiju, the Indian Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, which included Kandula Durgesh, the Minister of Andhra Pradesh, alongside senior monks and officials.
These holy relics were brought to Vietnam as part of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations and were previously displayed at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, then at Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh Province, Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam, and Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh Province of Vietnam.
Point of View
The enshrinement of the Holy Buddha Relics symbolizes the enduring cultural and spiritual connections between Vietnam and India. This event not only reinforces religious ties but also fosters mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Holy Buddha Relics?
The Holy Buddha Relics are sacred remains associated with the Buddha, believed to possess spiritual significance and are revered by Buddhists worldwide.
Why were the relics brought to Vietnam?
The relics were brought to Vietnam as part of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations, symbolizing peace and the teachings of Buddhism.
How long will the relics remain in Vietnam?
The relics will remain in Vietnam until June 2, following a request from the Vietnamese Prime Minister to the Indian government.
What is the significance of Phuc Son Pagoda?
Phuc Son Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist temple in Bac Giang Province, serving as a significant site for the enshrinement of important Buddhist relics.
Who attended the enshrinement ceremony?
The ceremony was attended by local people, provincial officials, monks, and thousands of devotees who paid their respects.
