Is Kiren Rijiju's Delegation Bringing Home Sacred Buddha Relics from Bhutan?
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Synopsis
Kiren Rijiju leads a significant delegation to Bhutan to facilitate the return of sacred Buddha relics to India, following their public display. This event reflects the deep spiritual ties between India and Bhutan, celebrated by both nations' leaders and citizens.
Key Takeaways
- Kiren Rijiju leads a delegation to Bhutan.
- The purpose is to secure the return of Buddha's sacred relics.
- The relics were displayed in Bhutan as a gesture of goodwill.
- PM Modi acknowledges the significance of these relics.
- This event strengthens the cultural ties between India and Bhutan.
New Delhi, Nov 24 (NationPress) Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, embarked on a journey to Bhutan on Monday, heading a delegation aimed at securing the return of Lord Buddha's sacred relics to India after their public display in the neighboring nation.
In a post on X, Rijiju expressed, "I am en route to the Kingdom of Bhutan to spearhead the 'Delegation for the Return of Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha' (enshrined at the National Museum in New Delhi), which were shared with Bhutan for public viewing."
The relics, which originated from India and are housed at the Grand Kuenrey Hall in Tashichhodzong, were sent for exhibition as a symbolic gesture from the people of India to Bhutan, commemorating the 70th birthday of the Fourth King and the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
During his visit to Bhutan on November 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated with Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in seeking blessings from the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, receiving a warm welcome from local monks at Thimphu's Tashichhodzong.
This visit highlighted the profound civilizational and spiritual bonds between the two nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted on X, "PM Modi joined His Majesty the King of Bhutan in seeking blessings from the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha. They prayed before the relics accompanied by the chants of monks."
Earlier this month, upon the arrival of the relics in Bhutan, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to the Bhutanese people for their grand reception of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha.
In a message on X, PM Modi remarked: "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people and leadership of Bhutan for their reverent welcome of the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha from India. These relics embody the enduring message of peace, compassion, and harmony. The teachings of Lord Buddha form a sacred connection between our two nations' shared spiritual heritage."
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar expressed his deep emotions seeing the warm reception given to the sacred relics of Lord Buddha that journeyed from India to Bhutan.
Sharing images from the ceremony on X, EAM Jaishankar stated: "I was profoundly moved by the warm welcome extended by the Government and the people of Bhutan to the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha."
Point of View
It is clear that the return of sacred relics signifies an important cultural and spiritual event for India and Bhutan, reinforcing the strong ties that bind the two nations. Such gestures foster goodwill and mutual respect, enhancing diplomatic relations.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Kiren Rijiju's visit to Bhutan?
The visit aims to lead a delegation for the return of Lord Buddha's sacred relics to India after their public exposition in Bhutan.
Why were the relics sent to Bhutan?
The relics were sent as a gesture to honor the Fourth King's 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival in Bhutan.
What significance do these relics hold?
The relics symbolize peace, compassion, and harmony, representing the shared spiritual heritage between India and Bhutan.
