Did Vietnam President Acknowledge Strengthened Spiritual and Cultural Ties with India?
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Synopsis
In a significant gesture, Vietnam's President Luong Cuong expressed appreciation for India sending the Holy Buddha Relics, enhancing the spiritual bonds between the two nations. This event coincided with the United Nations Day of Vesak, featuring key leaders and emphasizing the teachings of Buddha in addressing global challenges. Discover the depth of these cultural ties.
Key Takeaways
- Vietnam's President Luong Cuong appreciates India's gesture of sending the Holy Buddha Relics.
- The event highlights the spiritual and cultural ties between India and Vietnam.
- Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasizes the teachings of Lord Buddha in addressing global challenges.
- The Holy Buddha Relics will travel to various locations after being displayed in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Exhibitions showcased the rich cultural heritage shared by both nations.
Hanoi, May 6 (NationPress) Vietnam's President Luong Cuong expressed his gratitude on Tuesday for India’s generous gesture of sending the Holy Buddha Relics to Vietnam, a move that has significantly enhanced the spiritual and cultural connections between the two nations.
Accompanied by Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Cuong paid homage to the Holy Buddha Relics, which were transported from Sarnath near Kashi to Thanh Tam Pagoda situated within the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in the Binh Chanh District of Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnam’s Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs and Politburo Member, along with the Party Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City, also paid their respects to the sacred relics.
Earlier in the day, Rijiju delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City, where he was joined by President Cuong, Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Sanghraja of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha Thich Tri Quang, and other prominent leaders. Rijiju conveyed greetings and a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing that the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha provide valuable insights and solutions to many contemporary global issues. He highlighted India’s Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative, which encourages awareness regarding the impact of individual choices on our shared planet, firmly rooted in Buddhist philosophy.
Emphasizing the importance of the Holy Buddha Relics' presence in Ho Chi Minh City during the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations, he invited followers of Lord Buddha to explore the sacred sites in India linked to his teachings, fostering a connection with this living heritage.
“The enshrinement of Lord Buddha's sacred relics in Vietnam has touched numerous hearts. I spoke about how India embodies the enduring wisdom of the Buddha, promoting sustainability, peace, and compassion in today’s world,” Rijiju shared on X.
The holy relics were brought from India on May 2 by an Indian delegation headed by Rijiju, which also included Andhra Pradesh Minister Kandula Durgesh, along with senior monks and officials. Currently displayed at Thanh Tam Pagoda, the relics will also visit Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21.
On the sidelines of the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City, Rijiju also attended an exhibition showcasing Indian sculptures of Lord Buddha and a digital restoration of Buddhist monuments in India. He further explored a comparative exhibition of Buddhist art and sculptures in India and Vietnam, illustrating that over one-and-a-half millennia of Buddhist connections between the two nations extend beyond spirituality into the realms of art and culture.
Point of View
I believe that fostering international relationships through shared spiritual heritage can pave the way for greater understanding and cooperation. The acknowledgment of India's contribution to Vietnam's cultural landscape through the Holy Buddha Relics is a testament to the enduring ties that bind our nations. Such initiatives exemplify the power of spirituality in bridging cultural divides.
NationPress
21/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Holy Buddha Relics sent from India?
The Holy Buddha Relics symbolize a deep spiritual connection between India and Vietnam, enhancing cultural ties and promoting shared values of peace and compassion.
Who attended the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City?
The event was attended by President Luong Cuong, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and other prominent leaders.
What is the Mission LiFE initiative mentioned by Kiren Rijiju?
Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) is an initiative by India aimed at promoting awareness about individual choices and their impact on the environment, rooted in Buddhist philosophy.
Where will the Holy Buddha Relics be displayed after Thanh Tam Pagoda?
After Thanh Tam Pagoda, the relics will travel to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21.
What exhibitions did Kiren Rijiju visit during the event?
Rijiju visited exhibitions showcasing Indian sculptures of Lord Buddha and a comparative display of Buddhist art and sculptures from India and Vietnam.
