Sacred Relics of Buddha on Display in Bomdila: A Spiritual Journey Begins
Inauguration of the Sacred Relics Exhibition
Devotees gathered in Rupa township to offer prayers as the relics were transported through designated routes.
Itanagar, Nov 10: The revered relics of Shakyamuni Buddha have reached the Thubchog Gatsel Ling (TGL) Monastery in Bomdila, initiating a six-day public exhibition from November 8 to November 13. On the first day alone, over 4,000 devotees and visitors came to pay their respects and offer prayers.
The relics made their way to Bomdila from Tawang, where they were displayed from October 31 to November 8, continuing their journey of reverence throughout Arunachal Pradesh.
As per the Ministry of Culture, the journey from Tawang was accompanied by several dignitaries, including Education, Tourism, Rural Works, and Public Libraries Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, Venerable Phara Damey Tulku Rinpoche, the Abbot of Tawang Monastery, and Venerable Bhikkhu Khemachara, Deputy Secretary General of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), along with representatives from the National Museum in New Delhi and the IBC.
Upon arrival in Rupa, Minister Sona, along with Padma Shri awardee Guru Tulku Rinpoche and other notable figures, received the relics.
After the reception, the relics were paraded through designated routes in Rupa township, where many devotees gathered to pay their respects. They were then welcomed traditionally and participated in a special prayer ceremony at GRL Monastery (Upper Gompa) in Bomdila before being ceremoniously placed at TGL Monastery.
Minister Sona officially opened the public darshan and exhibitions that highlight Buddhist heritage, featuring collections from the IBC, National Museum, and Indian Museum in Kolkata.
In his address, Sona emphasized that the exposition was not just a chance to view the sacred relics but also an opportunity to absorb the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha. He encouraged attendees to embody compassion, brotherhood, peace, and harmony in their everyday lives.
He also discussed the potential for religious and cultural tourism, sharing the state government's vision to develop a Buddhist Circuit in the area.
Nakap Nalo commended the organizers for bringing this sacred exposition to the region and expressed his wish to extend its spiritual message to Taksing, which has a notable Buddhist community.
Phurpa Tsering described the event as historic and blessed, noting that the holy relics had returned to Arunachal Pradesh after a 13-year absence. He urged everyone to seize this rare chance to pay their respects and seek blessings.
Khemachara Bhikkhu also spoke on the spiritual and cultural importance of the exhibition.
The inaugural ceremony showcased vibrant cultural performances from various communities, celebrating the region's rich cultural heritage and diversity.
The event attracted former legislators, senior political figures, retired officials, representatives from community organizations, army personnel, administrative officials, religious leaders, lamas, and the general public.
The public exhibition at TGL Monastery will remain open until November 13, allowing devotees and visitors to honor the sacred relics and reflect on the teachings of Lord Buddha.