Prime Minister Modi to Launch Grand Exposition of Sacred Buddha Relics in Delhi
Inauguration of the Grand International Exposition
New Delhi, January 2: On Saturday, January 3, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially open the Grand International Exposition showcasing the Sacred Piprahwa Relics linked to Bhagwan Buddha at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in Delhi.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister expressed, “January 3 is a significant day for enthusiasts of history, culture, and the principles of Bhagwan Buddha. The Grand International Exposition titled ‘The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One’ will commence at 11 AM at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex.”
PM Modi emphasized the importance of this exhibition, stating, “This exposition features the Piprahwa relics that have been repatriated after over a century, along with authentic relics and archaeological artifacts from Piprahwa housed in the National Museum, New Delhi, and the Indian Museum, Kolkata.”
Unearthed in 1898, the Piprahwa relics are crucial to the archaeological exploration of early Buddhism. They are recognized as some of the earliest and most significant relic deposits directly associated with Bhagwan Buddha, as noted in an official statement. The archaeological findings connect the Piprahwa site to ancient Kapilavastu, which is widely regarded as the location where Gautam Buddha spent his formative years before his renunciation.
This exposition highlights India’s lasting civilizational ties to Buddha's teachings and showcases the Prime Minister’s dedication to safeguarding and promoting the nation’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy. The recent repatriation of these relics was achieved through persistent government initiatives, collaborative efforts among institutions, and innovative public-private partnerships.
The exhibition is organized thematically, featuring a reconstructed interpretive model inspired by the Sanchi stupa at its core, alongside authentic relics from national collections and the repatriated treasures. Other sections include Piprahwa Revisited; Vignettes of the Life of Buddha; Intangible in the Tangible: The Aesthetic Language of Buddhist Teachings; Expansion of Buddhist Art and Ideals Beyond Borders; and Repatriation of Cultural Artefacts: The Continuing Endeavour.
To enhance public interaction and comprehension, the exposition is complemented by a comprehensive audio-visual experience, which includes immersive films, digital reconstructions, interpretive projections, and multimedia presentations. These features provide accessible insights into the life of Bhagwan Buddha, the discovery and journey of the Piprahwa relics, and the artistic traditions inspired by his teachings.