The Holy Buddha Relic of Sarnath to be Exhibited in Vietnam
The Ministry of Culture of India, in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) based in New Delhi, is set to host a historic exposition of the sacred Buddha Relic from Sarnath in Vietnam during the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations in 2025. This significant event will mark the first time the relic is showcased in Vietnam, offering an opportunity for both local citizens and international delegates to engage with this revered artifact. The relic will be ceremonially transported to Delhi before its journey to Ho Chi Minh City, where it will be venerated at multiple sites.
Journey of the Sacred Relic
The sacred relic will begin its journey on April 30, 2025, when it is ceremonially brought from the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath to the Varanasi airport. This monastery, founded by Angarika Dharmapala, is home to the relics of Sakyamuni Buddha. Upon arrival in Delhi, the relic will be placed in a specially protected enclosure at the National Museum, where it will be honored with prayers, chanting, and meditation by followers of Dhamma and diplomatic representatives from Buddhist nations. This solemn gathering is scheduled for 5:30 PM on the same day.
The following day, May 1, the relic will be transported to Ho Chi Minh City aboard a special Indian Air Force aircraft, escorted by senior monks. This careful and respectful transfer underscores the significance of the relic and the reverence with which it is treated.
Significance of the Relic
The relic, which has been enshrined at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, was excavated from Nagarjuna Konda in Andhra Pradesh, a site of great historical importance in Mahayana Buddhism. The excavation, conducted by A.H. Longhurst from 1927 to 1931, revealed numerous Buddhist establishments and artifacts, with the oldest inscriptions dating back to around 246 CE. The relics were presented to the Mahabodhi Society of India in 1932, marking a significant moment in the preservation and veneration of Buddhist heritage.
The exposition of the relic in Vietnam coincides with the United Nations Day of Vesak, which celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha Gautama. This event will not only allow Vietnamese citizens to seek blessings but will also attract international delegates from over 100 countries, highlighting the global significance of this occasion.
Vesak Celebrations and Cultural Exhibitions
The sacred relic will be enshrined at several important sites in Vietnam, including Hanh Tรขm Monastery in Ho Chi Minh City, Bร ฤen Mountain in Tรขy Ninh Province, Quรกn Sแปฉ Monastery in Hanoi, and Tam Chรบc Monastery in Hร Nam Province. Each location will host ceremonies and worship, culminating in a grand celebration of the United Nations Day of Vesak from May 2 to May 8, 2025.
In addition to the relic exposition, the International Buddhist Confederation will host three exhibitions showcasing the dissemination of Buddha Dhamma and its cultural practices from India to Vietnam. These exhibitions will feature electronic displays of Jataka tales, sculptures of the Buddha, and a comparative study of Buddhist artifacts. A highlight will be the digital restoration of the Ajanta Cave murals, particularly the Bodhisattva Padmapani mural, which reflects the artistic achievements of India’s Gupta dynasty.
Global Impact and Themes of Vesak 2025
The United Nations Day of Vesak has been celebrated internationally since a resolution was passed by the UN General Assembly in 1999. The theme for the 2025 celebrations will focus on “Buddhist Approach to Unity and Inclusivity for Human Dignity: Buddhist Insights for World Peace and Sustainable Development.” This theme will be explored during an academic conference at Vietnam Buddhist University and other venues.
The event represents a significant cultural exchange, emphasizing the impact of Buddhism on art, spirituality, and cultural identity. The exhibitions and ceremonies surrounding the sacred relic will foster a deeper understanding of the rich heritage shared between India and Vietnam, promoting peace and compassion across borders.
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