Kashmir, October 20,2025-The sacred holy relics of Lord Buddha have returned to India, escorted by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, following a transformative week-long exposition at the Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery in Elista, Kalmykia, Russia’s only Buddhist-majority region. The event, which drew over 90,000 pilgrims, highlighted India’s dedication to fostering mutual understanding, trust and cooperation, and creating lasting connections through shared spiritual experiences.The holy relics, enshrined as a National Treasure at India’s National Museum, arrived in Kalmykia on October 11, 2025, via an Indian Air Force aircraft. Displayed at the revered “Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha” monastery, the exposition was a historic first for Russia. Organized by India’s Ministry of Culture, the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the National Museum, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), the event honored the legacy of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, who revitalized Buddhism in Kalmykia, Buryatia, and Tuva.
LG Manoj Sinha, leading the Indian delegation, paid deep reverence to the relics on October 18, offering a traditional “Khatak” scarf and lighting a ceremonial lamp. At the closing ceremony in the Central Temple, Sinha spoke passionately: “The exposition of holy relics has deepened spiritual connect, and mindfulness will forever be a beacon of peace, ideals, and inspiration for future generations. The holy relics return home, but Buddha’s enduring presence in Kalmykia will continue to guide seekers toward awakening.”
The exposition sparked profound devotion, with pilgrims braving long queues to offer prayers. Special services catered to Kalmykia’s Mahayana Buddhist community, descendants of the 17th-century Oirat Mongols. The event strengthened people-to-people ties between India and Russia, with Sinha emphasizing Buddha’s teachings of compassion and non-violence as a “roadmap for a just world.”On October 19, LG Manoj Sinha and senior monks accompanied the relics’ departure amid chants and incense, symbolizing the fusion of ancient wisdom and modern diplomacy. Back in India, the relics will rest in the National Museum’s Buddhist Gallery, while their spiritual imprint endures in Kalmykia, inspiring future generations.This follows successful expositions in Mongolia (2022), Thailand (2024), and Vietnam (2025), reinforcing India’s role as a global custodian of Buddhist heritage.
