What Draws 50,000 Devotees to India’s Sacred Buddha Relics in Kalmykia?
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Synopsis
Over 50,000 devotees converged in Kalmykia, Russia, to pay their respects to India’s Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha. The event, featuring long queues and significant spiritual fervor, showcases the deep cultural ties between India and Russia, highlighting the legacy of Buddhism in the region.
Key Takeaways
- This exhibition has attracted over 50,000 devotees.
- The event highlights the cultural ties between India and Russia.
- The relics are enshrined at the Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha.
- Kushok Bakula Rinpoche’s legacy continues to influence Buddhism in Russia.
- The event is a significant moment in promoting interfaith dialogue.
Kalmykia (Russia), Oct 18 (NationPress) More than 50,000 devotees, many of whom stood in lines that extended up to one kilometer, have shown their respect at a monastery that is currently hosting an exhibition of India’s Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha, an official reported on Saturday.
The exhibition from India has elicited an extraordinary response in the Republic of Kalmykia, Russia, stated the official.
As of Sunday, over 50,000 devotees have offered their reverent homage to the relics, which are enshrined at the iconic Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, commonly referred to as the ‘Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha’, according to an official from the Ministry of Culture.
These sacred relics, regarded as a National Treasure of India, were transported to the capital city of Elista by a distinguished delegation led by Keshav Prasad Maurya, the Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, along with senior Indian monks.
The delegation is offering special religious services and blessings for the predominantly Buddhist community of Kalmykia, which is the only area in Europe where Buddhism is the dominant faith, the statement noted.
The spiritual enthusiasm has been evident since the exhibition commenced on October 11, it added.
“Currently, a line of devotees extends nearly one kilometer from the monastery, demonstrating the profound significance of this occasion. The Golden Abode, a vital Tibetan Buddhist center that opened in 1996 and is located in the expansive Kalmyk steppe, has been experiencing a steady stream of pilgrims since dawn,” the statement elaborated.
This groundbreaking exhibition, the first of its kind in the Russian Republic, underscores the deep civilizational ties between India and Russia, remarked the official.
“It rekindles the lasting legacy of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist monk and diplomat from Ladakh, who played a key role in revitalizing Buddhism in Mongolia and sparking interest in the Buddha Dharma in Russian areas such as Kalmykia, Buryatia, and Tuva,” he added.
The event has been orchestrated by the BTI segment of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the National Museum, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
Point of View
The gathering of over 50,000 devotees in Kalmykia to honor India’s Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha reflects a significant cultural exchange and spiritual revival. This event underscores the enduring connections between India and Russia, emphasizing the importance of Buddhism in fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities. As we navigate through global challenges, such gatherings remind us of our shared heritage and the power of faith in bridging divides.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Buddha relics significant?
The Buddha relics are considered a National Treasure of India and represent the enduring legacy and teachings of Lord Buddha, inspiring millions around the world.
How many devotees attended the event?
Over 50,000 devotees have attended the exposition, showcasing the deep spiritual connection and interest in Buddhism in the region.
What role did Kushok Bakula Rinpoche play?
Kushok Bakula Rinpoche was instrumental in reviving Buddhism in Mongolia and reigniting interest in the Buddha Dharma in Russian regions, including Kalmykia.
Where is the exhibition taking place?
The exhibition is hosted at the Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, also known as the ‘Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha’, in Elista, Kalmykia.
Who organized the event?
The event was organized by the BTI section of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and other cultural institutions.
