Buddha's Relics Return To India After 26-Day Historic Exhibition In Thailand —See Pics

Sacred relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples Arahata Sariputta and Arhata Mahamoggallana returned to India after a 26-day exposition in Thailand. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

They had been taken to Thailand for an exhibition, which was a collaborative effort between the Government of India, the Ministry of Culture, and the International Buddhist Confederation. It was aimed at fostering the deep-rooted civilisational connection between India and Thailand. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

The relics arrived at the Air Force Station in Palam, Delhi, on Tuesday. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

A homecoming ceremony marking the return of the relics was also held at the Air Force Station. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

After their return, the relics were kept in the Jagmohan Hall located on the premises of the Air Force station. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Meenakshi Lekhi received the relics during the ceremony. She was accompanied by IBC Director General Abhijit Halder and other officials at the airport.

The sacred relics were welcomed back into India with full state honours. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

A red carpet was laid in front of the special aircraft in which the relics were ferried to the terminal building of the Air Force Station's technical area. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

Meenakshi Lekhi carried the relics to the hall, where the homecoming ceremony took place. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

Devotees were allowed to pray in front of the holy relics of the Buddha. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

Among those present for the ceremony were several Buddhist gurus and devotees. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

According to the Union Culture Ministry, this was the first time that the relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples were showcased together. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)

After the programme came to an end, the holy relics of Lord Buddha were handed over to National Museum by Meenakshi Lekhi. (Photo: Abhishek Nayan)