Historic Journey: Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha Embark on First-ever Exposition to Thailand

New Delhi: In a monumental event, the revered relics of Lord Buddha, accompanied by those of his esteemed disciples Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana, are set to embark on a sacred journey to Thailand. This unprecedented exposition marks the first time that the holy relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples will be showcased together.

Led by Hon’ble Governor of Bihar Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar, a 22-member delegation will accompany the Sacred Relics from India to Thailand for a 26-day exposition. The delegation includes venerable monks, officials from the Ministry of Culture, state government representatives, curators from the National Museum, artists, and scholars. The event is organized with the support of the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Embassy in Thailand, the International Buddhist Confederation, the National Museum, and the State Government of Madhya Pradesh.

Shri Govind Mohan, Secretary Ministry of Culture, highlighted the historic significance of this event in India-Thailand relations, aiming to strengthen cultural and spiritual ties between the two countries. The centerpiece of this esteemed collection is the Piparahwa Relic, a revered artifact safeguarded at the National Museum. Among the 20 cherished pieces housed at the National Museum, four will be traveling to Thailand for this momentous occasion.

The holy relics of Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana, currently residing at Sanchi, have been brought to Delhi in preparation for their journey to Thailand, further enriching this sacred expedition.

The journey of these sacred relics from India to Thailand is scheduled to commence on 22nd February 2024. The relics will be carried in an IAF aircraft befitting their status as State Guests and will reach Thailand on the same day. Once arrived, the relics will be welcomed in a grand ceremony and securely housed at the National Museum in Bangkok. They will later be enshrined in a grand mandapam prepared in Sanam Luang Pavilion in Bangkok on 23rd February. Devotees can pay their reverence from Makha Bucha Day onwards. Additionally, exhibitions about Buddhist sites in Bharat and talks on Relics by academicians will be organized on the sidelines of the relics’ tour at different venues.

The exhibition itinerary includes visits to multiple venues across Thailand, allowing devotees and enthusiasts alike to pay homage to these revered artifacts:

Sanam Luang Pavilion, Bangkok: 22nd February 2024 – 3rd March 2024 (11 Days)
Ho Kum Luang, Royal Rujapruek, Chiang Mai: 4th March 2024 – 8th March 2024 (5 Days)
Wat Maha Wanaram, Ubon Ratchathani: 9th March 2024 – 13th March 2024 (5 Days)
Wat MahaThat, Aoluek, Krabi: 14th March 2024 – 18th March 2024 (5 Days)
This sacred journey will culminate on 19th March 2024, with the relics being escorted back to their respective homes, concluding a historic and spiritually enriching exposition in Thailand.