The revered relics of Lord Buddha, along with those of his esteemed disciples Arahata Sariputta and Arahata Maha Moggallana, arrived by a special aircraft at Don Mueang airport for a 25-day long exposition. The holy relics will visit four cities in Thailand till 19 March 2024. A high-level delegation led by the Governor of Bihar, H.E. Mr. Rajendra Arlekar, and the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, H.E. Dr. Virendra Kumar, accompanied the relics to Thailand, marking a landmark episode in cultural exchange between India and Thailand. This momentous occasion coincides with the auspicious occasion of the 6th cycle and 72nd birth anniversary of His Majesty the King of Thailand.
Upon arrival at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok, a solemn prayer ceremony was conducted by senior monks from both India and Thailand, symbolizing the deep-rooted civilizational connections based on Buddhist traditions that bind the two nations.
During a ceremony held to welcome the sacred relics at the National Museum, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment H.E. Dr. Virendra Kumar highlighted the enduring wisdom of Lord Buddha, which continues to serve as a guiding light for the civilizational ties between India and Thailand. He emphasized that the exposition of the sacred relics, named as Ganga Mekong Holy Relics Dhammayatra, will further strengthen the bonds of friendship and understanding between the two countries.
Earlier, the exposition of the holy relics of Lord Buddha from India was held in Thailand in 1995-96, marking the 50th anniversary of King Rama IX’s accession to the throne. The relics of Arahata Sariputta and Arahata Moggallana were brought to India in 1952 by Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, a renowned Indian statesman and the President of Maha Bodhi Society at that time.
The exposition of the sacred relics in Thailand serves as a testament to the rich heritage and Buddhist legacy that India and Thailand share, fostering greater cultural exchange and mutual respect. The decision of the Government of India under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to further strengthen the relationship between India and Thailand.