**Ministry of Culture to Host Grand Exhibition of Sacred Buddha Relics in Russia**
Lucknow: The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, is set to host a grand exhibition of sacred Buddha relics in Kalmykia, Russia, from 24 September to 1 October. The exhibition will showcase the Piprahwa relics, which originate from Kapilvastu in Uttar Pradesh. These relics have been archaeologically verified and hold immense significance for the global Buddhist community.
A delegation carrying the relics will be led by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, who is scheduled to depart for Russia on 23 September via Indian Air Force aircraft.
Deputy Chief Minister Maurya emphasized that the international display of these relics will serve as a powerful instrument of India’s cultural diplomacy and soft power. He pointed out that previous exhibitions in Thailand and Vietnam have successfully enhanced India’s global cultural stature. The upcoming Kalmykia showcase is expected to continue this tradition of promoting India’s rich cultural heritage worldwide.
Maurya further highlighted that the exhibition will deepen bilateral cultural ties, reaffirm India’s role as the custodian of Buddhist heritage, and promote global peace, compassion, and non-violence by spreading the timeless message of Buddha across the world.
**Sacred Buddhist Relics Return to Uttar Pradesh After 127 Years**
In a remarkable development, the sacred Piprahwa relics have been returned to their homeland in Uttar Pradesh after 127 years. Discovered in Siddharthnagar district in 1898, these relics were brought back to India following an international auction.
The return of these precious artifacts was made possible through the concerted efforts of the Ministry of Culture and the Godrej Industries Group. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the event as a moment of national pride.
The collection includes the Buddha’s sacred bones and other artifacts, which are believed to have a direct connection to the ancient Shakya dynasty.
The Government of India plans to publicly exhibit the relics to promote cultural tourism and strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s position as a global hub of Buddhist heritage.
This exhibition not only showcases India’s rich cultural past but also reinforces its commitment to preserving and promoting the spiritual legacy of Buddhism on the international stage.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/up-deputy-cm-keshav-prasad-maurya-to-lead-delegation-carrying-buddha-relics-to-russia
