India Sends Buddha Relic to Vietnam for Vesak

India Sends Buddha Relic to Vietnam for Vesak

Why in the News ?

For the first time, India will display the sacred Buddha Relic of Sarnath in Vietnam during the UN Vesak Day 2025 celebrations. The Ministry of Culture, with the International Buddhist Confederation, is organizing the religious exposition from May 2–8.

Historic Religious Diplomacy Initiative:

• India is sending the sacred Buddha Relic of Sarnath to Vietnam for display during the UN Vesak Day 2025.
• This marks the first-ever international exposition of the relic in Vietnam.
• The initiative is led by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).
• The event promotes Buddhist diplomacy, cultural ties, and shared spiritual heritage.

Journey and Ceremonial Events

• The relic is being moved from Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, Sarnath, to Delhi’s National Museum, where it will be displayed for prayers and meditation.
• On May 1, the relic will be transported to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on a special Indian Air Force aircraft.
• It will be ceremoniously enshrined and venerated from May 2 to May 8, in religious rituals and public worship.

Key Dignitaries and Symbolism

• A high-level Indian delegation, including Minister Kiren Rijiju and IBC Secretary General Ven. Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden, will attend.
• The gesture strengthens India-Vietnam cultural relations and highlights India’s role as the land of Buddha.
• It aims to foster intercultural unity, peace, and Buddhist solidarity through soft diplomacy.