From Our Special Correspondent
New Delhi, April 23: Monks from different sects of Buddhism today offered traditional prayers for the upcoming Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Tathagata Buddha, which was unveiled by the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, here, with the central theme – Peace Beyond Borders.
Shekhawat hailed that for the first time in the country, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha – preserved at their original repository are being brought out for public exposition. It will serve as a powerful medium to promote the message of global peace and harmony, he said at a curtain raiser press conference here.
The Union Minister emphasised that the teachings of Lord Buddha on non-violence, compassion, and inner awakening hold deep relevance in today’s global context, marked by uncertainty and conflict. The Lt Governor of Ladakh Mr V K Saxena also addressed the event.
Chief Ministers from several Northeastern states, Ambassadors from Buddhist countries and experts all over the world would attend the fortnight-long historic event. Among others, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijuju will be one of the main guests in the event.
Talking on the importance of Ladakh as a centre of Buddhist heritage, the Union Minister stated that the exposition will not only provide an opportunity for spiritual engagement but also provide a major boost to cultural tourism in the region. He noted that similar international expositions of the sacred relics have drawn large participation across countries, strengthening India’s cultural and civilizational connection globally.
The exposition is being organised by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh and the International Buddhist Confederation, in Ladakh. The prayer ceremony forms an important part of the preparatory rituals, symbolising collective faith and invoking divine blessings for the smooth conduct of the exposition.
The 15-day programme will include public veneration of the sacred relics, grand processions, traditional ceremonies, and a wide range of parallel events such as meditation sessions, yoga camps, health initiatives, cultural performances, exhibitions, and international conferences on Himalayan Buddhism.
Key venues include the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, Dharma Centre, Leh Palace, and CIBS. The exposition will also extend to Zanskar from 11th to 12th May, followed by a closing ceremony in Leh on May 14 and the departure of the sacred relics on 15th May 2026.
Among others, Abhijit Halder, Director General, International Buddhist Confederation and other senior officers from the Ministry were present. The event concluded with a shared commitment among all stakeholders to ensure the successful management of this landmark spiritual and cultural initiative, reinforcing India’s position as the global centre of Buddhist heritage.
