New Delhi: In a historic and momentous event, the revered relics of Lord Buddha, along with those of his esteemed disciples, Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana, are set to embark on a sacred journey to Thailand. This unprecedented exposition marks the first time that the holy relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples will be showcased together.
Briefing the media about the visit in New Delhi on Tuesday, Govind Mohan, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, said, “A 22-member delegation led by Governor of Bihar Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar will accompany the sacred relics from India to Thailand for 26-day exposition.”
The delegation comprises of venerable monks from Kushinagar, Aurangabad, Ladakh, officials from Ministry of Culture, state government of Madhya Pradesh, curators from National Museum, artists and scholars.
The event is being organised with the support of Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Embassy in Thailand, International Buddhist Confederation, National Museum, state government of Madhya Pradesh.
Mohan added, “It is another historic milestone in India-Thailand relations and will further boost cultural and spiritual relations between the two countries.”
He elaborated that the centerpiece of this esteemed collection is the Piparahwa Relic, a revered artifact categorized as AA, safeguarded at the National Museum. Among the 20 cherished pieces housed at the National Museum, four will be travelling to Thailand for this momentous occasion.
Additionally, the holy relics of Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana, currently residing at Sanchi, have been brought to Delhi in preparation for their journey to Thailand, further enriching this sacred expedition.
The journey of these sacred relics from India to Thailand is scheduled to commence on February 22, 2024. The relics are being carried in IAF aircraft befitting status as state guest and will reach Thailand in the forenoon of the same day. Once arrived, the relics will be welcomed in a grand ceremony and securely housed at the National Museum in Bangkok, and later enshrined in a grand mandapam prepared in Sanam Luang Pavilion in Bangkok on February 23. People can pay their reverence from Makha Bucha Day onwards.
Exhibitions about Buddhist sites in India and talk on Relics by academicians will also be organised on the sidelines of the tour of the relics at the different venues.
The exhibition itinerary includes visits to multiple venues across Thailand, allowing devotees and enthusiasts alike to pay homage to these revered artifacts. Here’s the itinerary:
- Sanam Luang Pavilion, Bangkok: 22nd February 2024 – 3rd March 2024 (11 Days)
- Ho Kum Luang, Royal Rujapruek, Chiang Mai: 4th March 2024 – 8th March 2024 (5 Days)
- Wat Maha Wanaram, Ubon Ratchathani: 9th March 2024 – 13th March 2024 (5 Days)
- Wat MahaThat, Aoluek, Krabi: 14th March 2024 – 18th March 2024 (5 Days)
This sacred journey will culminate on March 19, 2024, with the relics being escorted back to their respective homes, concluding a historic and spiritually enriching exposition in Thailand.
