A month-long exposition across Vietnam of sacred relics of the Buddha, on loan from India, has drawn an estimated 17.8 million devotees, according to Indian government officials. The tour, undertaken to commemorate United Nations Day of Vesak, marks the first time these relics have been displayed in Vietnam. The tour concluded with their return to India on 2 June.
“An extraordinary spiritual movement swept across Vietnam as millions of devotees participated in a historic veneration pilgrimage of the Buddha’s sacred relics from India,” the Ministry of Culture said in a statement on Monday. “The sacred tour, spanning multiple revered locations from the south to the north of the country, drew more than 17.8 million devotees in total, uniting Buddhists and spiritual seekers in a profound display of reverence and cultural solidarity.” (Deccan Herald)
The relics, considered sacred remains of the historical Buddha, born Siddhartha Gautama, are housed at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, one of four principal sites associated with the Buddha’s life and teachings. Their temporary transfer to Vietnam was coordinated by the Indian Ministry of Culture, in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and the government of Vietnam.
The relics arrived in Ho Chi Minh City on 2 May and were taken to Ay Thanh Tam Monastery in the city on 3 May. The relics then went on to Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi from 13–17 May, and then to Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam Province from 17–19 May.
“Originally scheduled to conclude on 21 May, the exposition was extended until 2 June upon special request by the government of Vietnam due to the spiritually charged atmosphere and growing public reverence,” the ministry said in a statement. (Deccan Herald)
Vietnam, home to an estimated 13 million Buddhists—roughly 13 per cent of the population—follows predominantly Mahayana traditions. Buddhism has played a significant role in Vietnamese culture and politics since its introduction over 2,000 years ago, and remains the country’s most widely practiced religion. The Buddhist Sangha of Vietnam, a government-recognized organization, helped to coordinate the exposition with local temples and authorities.
“This was a deeply moving and unifying experience for Vietnamese Buddhists,” said Ven. Thích Trí Quảng, Supreme Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. “The presence of the Buddha’s relics on our soil offered a unique opportunity for millions to renew their spiritual vows and reflect on the Dharma.”
The Indian delegation accompanying the relics was led by Odisha state governor Prof. Ganeshi Lal, and included senior monks and cultural officials. The return journey to India took place on the night of 2 June, via a specially arranged Indian Air Force aircraft, and concluded with a ceremonial reception at Palam Air Force Station in Delhi.
Following their arrival, the relics were placed on public display for one day at the National Museum in New Delhi on 3 June. There, devotees and dignitaries will be able to offer respects and “a formal prayer meeting with senior monks, IBC officials, and diplomats will follow,” according to the IBC. (Suryaa)
The relics were transported with full state honors to Sarnath, via Varanasi, on 4 June, escorted in a presidential cavalcade. The final enshrinement took place at Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, concluding what officials described as a “historic international pilgrimage.” (Suryaa)
Ven. Pelwatte Seewalee Thero, general secretary, Maha Bodhi Society of India, said: “I will never forget the affection that the Vietnamese government and people have shown us. Your country had endured immense suffering, gone through many wars and sacrifice to attain freedom and development it enjoys today. With the blessings of the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, and through your own experience, I believe that Vietnam will continue to rise.” (The Voice of Vietnam)
See more
Exposition of Lord Buddha’s holy relics in Vietnam draws over 17 million devotees (The National Herald)
Over 17 mn visit Buddha relics exposition in Vietnam (Deccan Herald)
After month-long exposition in Vietnam, holy Buddha relics return to India (Suryaa)
Sacred relics of Buddha return to India after pilgrimage across Vietnam (The Voice of Vietnam)
Buddhist relics arrive in India, was part of an exhibition in Vietnam on UNDV (Kalinga)
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