Formal Reception at Paro and Diplomatic Courtesy
On arrival at Paro Airport, the Minister initiated the formal handover procedures overseeing the transfer of the revered relics. In a warm diplomatic engagement, Shri Rijiju met H.E. Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan. The two leaders exchanged words reflecting the deep historic and cultural bonds between the neighbouring nations.
Shri Rijiju expressed gratitude for Bhutan’s custodianship and public reverence for the relics, calling the India–Bhutan relationship “a timeless spiritual bond that has flowed through centuries standing firm like the mountains and as pure as the ties of the heart.”
Shared Cultural Work: Booklet on Guru Rinpoche Sites
As part of the visit, both sides jointly released a booklet cataloguing 23 sacred sites associated with Guru Rinpoche. The booklet was prepared by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in coordination with India’s Ministry of Culture and translated into Dzongkha by the Embassy of India in Thimphu. Officials said the publication aims to promote shared Buddhist heritage and facilitate cultural exchanges between scholars, pilgrims and tourists.
Solemnity and Symbolism of the Return
Officials described the return as a solemn and symbolic event reinforcing spiritual diplomacy between India and Bhutan. Earlier in the day, Shri Rijiju departed from Air Force Station Palam to personally accompany the relics back to India, underscoring the importance New Delhi attaches to the transfer.
The public exposition in Bhutan has, according to embassy statements, attracted thousands of devotees, reflecting the relics’ significance in regional Buddhist practice and devotion. Government sources emphasised that the careful handling and respectful presentation of the relics in both countries reflect long-standing cultural reciprocity.
Cultural Diplomacy and Regional Harmony
Observers say the event highlights the softer, cultural dimension of India–Bhutan ties, emphasising people-to-people contact and shared spiritual values. The collaborative release of the booklet and the high-level delegation underscore a continuing commitment to cultural outreach and mutual goodwill.
By personally leading the delegation, Shri Rijiju conveyed New Delhi’s intent to prioritise religious and cultural cooperation as part of its broader neighbourhood diplomacy.
What Comes Next
The Sacred Relics are scheduled to return to India on November 25, 2025. Indian authorities will coordinate further ceremonies and the relics’ onward transit as per established religious and security protocols. The Ministry of Culture and related stakeholders will provide details about public viewings or shrine placements following their arrival.
