New Delhi: Revered Buddha Relics, along with those of his two chief disciples, Arahant Sariputta and Maha Moggallana, are set to return to India Tuesday, concluding a month-long exposition in Thailand that saw an engagement of over 4 million devotees. The return, scheduled for 4 pm at the Air Force Station in Palam, New Delhi, is to be accorded full state honours, it is learnt.
The relics that were displayed across Thailand as part of an exhibition titled 'Shared Heritage, Shared Values' embarked from New Delhi on February 22 and traversed Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ubon Ratchathani, and Krabi. It was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), which aimed to foster a sense of shared spirituality and cultural connection, IBC said in a statement.
Thailand King Vajiralongkorn and his queen performed the inauguration of the prayers with full grandeur at Bangkok's central exhibition park. The exposition also marked the commemoration of the king's 72nd birthday (July 28) celebrations.
The relics were accompanied by an official delegation from India, led by Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar. Monks from India were present at each of the four locations. Besides, there were academicians from different Indian universities who spoke on Buddhism and the relevance of the relics.
According to the IBC, throughout its journey, the exposition drew significant crowds, with devotees queueing from the early hours to offer their prayers and respects.
Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Chairman Tashi Gyalson and monks from various Theravada and Mahayana traditions of Buddhism are accompanying the relics on its return, which will be received by Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi at the Palam air base Tuesday.