Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi described the occasion as deeply emotional and historic. He said that after a wait of over a century, India’s treasured heritage had finally returned to its rightful home.
The Prime Minister noted that the people of India would now be able to have darshan of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha and receive his blessings, calling the reunification of the relics a moment of national pride.
Rare Reunification of Piprahwa Relics
The exposition commemorates the reunification of the Piprahwa relics, first excavated in 1898 from Kapilavastu, believed to be associated with Lord Buddha’s Sakya lineage. Additional relics from excavations conducted between 1972 and 1975, along with collections preserved at the Indian Museum in Kolkata, are also on display.
A key highlight is the Peppé family collection, which was repatriated to India in July 2025 after the Government of India intervened to stop its auction abroad.
Over 80 Rare Objects on Display
Curated around the theme “The Light and the Lotus,” the exhibition features more than 80 rare artefacts dating from the 6th century BCE to modern times. These include sculptures, reliquaries, manuscripts, thangkas, ritual objects, and jewelled treasures.
At the heart of the exhibition is the monolithic stone coffer in which the sacred relics were originally discovered, offering visitors a powerful glimpse into ancient Buddhist history.
Cultural Diplomacy and Global Significance
Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the Prime Minister’s presence lent immense significance to the occasion. He praised PM Modi for translating India’s civilisational spirit into governance and global engagement.
Under PM Modi’s leadership, India has successfully repatriated 642 antiquities so far, with the return of the Piprahwa relics emerging as a landmark achievement in cultural diplomacy.
Prime Minister’s Walkthrough and Rituals
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi undertook a detailed walkthrough of the exhibition. He offered khataak and rose petals at the sculpture of the Seated Buddha, consecrated an ancient seal excavated from Piprahwa, and planted a Bodhi tree sapling.
The Prime Minister also released the exhibition catalogue, signed the visitors’ book, and offered Chivar Daan to the Buddhist monks present.
India’s Enduring Buddhist Legacy
The exposition underscores India’s enduring commitment to preserving and sharing its spiritual heritage with the world. It highlights India’s unique position as the birthplace of Buddhism and a custodian of its sacred legacy.
The event witnessed participation from Union Ministers, diplomats, scholars, monks, artists, students, and followers of Buddhism from India and abroad.