Buddha Relics return to India after historic 17-day exposition in Bhutan
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
The Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha arrived in New Delhi on Monday after a 17-day exposition in Bhutan, marking a deeply symbolic moment in India–Bhutan cultural diplomacy and reaffirming centuries-old spiritual ties between the two Himalayan neighbours.
Relics returned with full honours
Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju accompanied the Sacred Relics on their return journey from Bhutan and described the experience as “deeply humbling.” Upon landing at Palam Airport, the Relics were received by IBC Director General Abhijit Halder, monks, and senior officials of the Ministry of Culture and the National Museum.
Rijiju expresses gratitude to Bhutan’s leadership
Rijiju thanked the King of Bhutan, the Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, the Laytshog Lopen of the Central Monastic Body, venerable monks, and the Royal Government for the ceremonial care taken during the exposition. He said Bhutan’s reverence for the Holy Relics “inspires deeper harmony between the peoples of both nations.”
Prayers offered at Trashichhodzong
The Sacred Buddha Piprahwa Relics were enshrined at the Grand Kuenray Hall of Trashichhodzong in Thimphu from 8 to 25 November 2025 as part of the Global Peace Prayer Festival. Tens of thousands of devotees visited the Hall, offering prayers and seeking blessings throughout the 17-day exposition.
Bhutan King leads final prayers and procession
On Monday morning, His Majesty The King of Bhutan presided over special prayers at the Grand Kuenray before the Relics were taken in a state procession to Paro International Airport. Senior Bhutanese leaders including the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Health Minister, monks, and Indian delegates attended the ceremony. His Majesty also met with Kiren Rijiju, who travelled to Bhutan solely to accompany the Relics back to India.
A testament to shared spiritual heritage
The Sacred Buddha Relics, among the most revered in the Buddhist world, were brought to Bhutan as a gesture of friendship from India. Their stay in Bhutan drew immense devotion and reinforced the enduring cultural, spiritual, and civilizational bridge that connects the two nations.
