Did J&K LG Manoj Sinha Arrive in Russia to Retrieve Lord Buddha's Holy Relics?
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Synopsis
Jammu and Kashmir's Lt. Governor, Manoj Sinha, has arrived in Russia to oversee the return of Lord Buddha's holy relics after their exhibition in Elista. This significant cultural exchange aims to deepen India-Russia ties and promote the teachings of peace embodied by Buddha. Join us as we explore the details of this historic journey.
Key Takeaways
- The journey of Lord Buddha's relics signifies a major cultural exchange.
- The exhibition aims to deepen India-Russia relations.
- Manoj Sinha leads the Indian delegation in this significant mission.
- The relics are enshrined in the Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha.
- The event promotes the message of peace and harmony.
Moscow, Oct 17 (NationPress) The Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, touched down in Russia on Friday with the mission of bringing back the holy relics of Lord Buddha to India after their exhibition in Elista, the capital of the Kalmykia Republic.
Sinha, who is at the helm of the Indian delegation, was welcomed by Tserenov Erdni Nikolayevich, First Deputy Chairman of the Government of Kalmykia, along with Dzhambinov Ochir Vladimirovich, Deputy Chairman, and Nikhilesh Giri, India's Deputy Chief of Mission.
The delegation is set to return with the relics to India on October 19. These sacred relics have been housed at the Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, recognized as the main Buddhist monastery in Elista—affectionately termed the 'Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha'—since October 11.
Earlier today, Sinha confirmed his journey to Kalmykia, expressing his honor in leading the delegation tasked with the return of the holy relics of Lord Buddha.
In a message on X, the LG's office stated, "Departing for Kalmykia, Russia, where I will spearhead the delegation to retrieve the holy relics of Lord Buddha after a week-long exhibition. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this revered opportunity. 'Om Namo Buddhaya'."
This exhibition is orchestrated by the Ministry of Culture, in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the National Museum, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts.
Last week, a press conference took place at the Golden Abode of the Buddha Shakyamuni, where the Holy relics of Lord Buddha are currently enshrined.
Attendees included Batu Khasikov, Head of the Republic of Kalmykia, Keshav Prasad Maurya, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Vinay Kumar Abhijit Halder, Indian Ambassador to Russia, His Holiness 43rd Sakya Trizin Rinpoche, Head of the Sakya Order, and His Eminence Shajin Lama of the Kalmyk people, along with other monks, devotees, dignitaries, and officials. They discussed the significance of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha visiting Kalmykia.
“This visit offers a remarkable opportunity for the residents of Kalmykia and surrounding regions for a deep spiritual pilgrimage. It will aid in disseminating Lord Buddha’s message of peace globally and reinforce India-Russia collaboration, including in Buddhist Studies and fostering people-to-people connections,” stated the Embassy of India in Moscow on X.
Point of View
The return of Lord Buddha's holy relics represents a profound moment for cultural diplomacy between India and Russia. This initiative not only emphasizes the shared heritage of Buddhism but also reinforces the bond between the two countries, fostering goodwill and collaboration in various fields, including education and spirituality.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the holy relics of Lord Buddha important?
The holy relics of Lord Buddha are significant as they represent his teachings and essence, serving as a source of inspiration and spiritual pilgrimage for millions around the world.
What is the purpose of the exhibition in Elista?
The exhibition in Elista aims to showcase the holy relics to promote cultural exchange and deepen understanding of Buddhist traditions, thereby enhancing India-Russia ties.
When will the relics return to India?
The holy relics are scheduled to return to India on October 19, following their exhibition.
Who is leading the Indian delegation in Russia?
The Indian delegation is being led by Jammu and Kashmir's Lt. Governor, Manoj Sinha.
What role does the Ministry of Culture play in this event?
The Ministry of Culture is organizing the exhibition in collaboration with various institutions to promote the significance of Lord Buddha's teachings and enhance cultural ties.
