Prime Minister Narendra Modi Inaugurates International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Bhagwan Buddha in New Delhi.
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics related to Bhagwan Buddha, titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in New Delhi. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister described the occasion as historic, stating that after a wait of nearly 125 years, a priceless part of India’s spiritual and civilizational heritage has returned to the country.
The Prime Minister said that for India, the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha are not mere artefacts but an inseparable part of the nation’s civilisation and revered heritage. He noted that from today, people across the country will be able to witness these relics and receive the blessings of Bhagwan Buddha. Extending greetings to all guests, monks, and dharma acharyas present, he said their presence had infused the event with spiritual energy and inspiration. He expressed hope that the year 2026, beginning with this auspicious event, would bring peace, prosperity, and harmony to the world.
Highlighting the significance of the venue, the Prime Minister said Qila Rai Pithora stands on land rich with India’s glorious history. He remarked that while the site once symbolised political power, it is now witnessing the addition of a sacred spiritual chapter. Reflecting on the relics’ journey, he said their removal during the colonial period and their eventual return serve as a reminder that slavery not only affects politics and economics but also damages cultural heritage. He emphasised that while others may have viewed the relics as antique objects, for India they remain sacred and living symbols of faith. He thanked the Godrej Group for its cooperation in facilitating the return of the relics to India.
The Prime Minister underlined that the wisdom and path shown by Bhagwan Buddha belong to all humanity. Citing recent international exhibitions of the relics, he noted the overwhelming response in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Russia, where millions of devotees paid homage. He said these experiences clearly demonstrate that Bhagwan Buddha belongs to everyone and unites people across nations, cultures, and governments.
Sharing personal reflections, the Prime Minister said Bhagwan Buddha has deeply influenced his life. He recalled that his birthplace Vadnagar was once a major centre of Buddhist learning, while Sarnath—where Buddha delivered his first sermon—is his karmabhoomi. He spoke of visiting important Buddhist sites across the world, including Lumbini, Japan, China, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Singapore, and said these journeys strengthened his understanding of Buddha’s timeless message.
He emphasised that India is not only the custodian of Buddha’s sacred relics but also a living carrier of his tradition. The Prime Minister highlighted India’s efforts to preserve Buddhist heritage globally, including restoration work in Nepal and Myanmar, as well as ongoing discoveries and conservation efforts within India. He detailed initiatives to modernise Buddhist pilgrimage infrastructure and develop a Buddhist Circuit to enhance connectivity and spiritual experience for pilgrims worldwide.
Stressing the importance of preserving Buddhist teachings for future generations, the Prime Minister said special efforts are being made to popularise the Pali language, in which Buddha’s teachings were originally delivered. Granting Pali the status of a classical language, he said, would help people understand the Dhamma in its original essence and strengthen scholarly research.
Calling Buddha’s philosophy a guiding light for humanity, the Prime Minister said India continues to promote dialogue, peace, and compassion in line with the message of “Atta Deepo Bhava.” He urged citizens, especially students and youth, to visit the exhibition and connect with the legacy of Bhagwan Buddha. Describing the exposition as a bridge between India’s glorious past and its future aspirations, he expressed confidence in its success.
Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekawat, Kiren Rijiju, Ramdas Athawale, Rao Inderjit Singh, and Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinay Saxena, along with other dignitaries, were present at the event.
