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The Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics, titled "The Light and the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One," showcases ancient Buddhist artifacts linked to Lord Buddha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated it on January 3, 2026, at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in New Delhi. This event reunites relics repatriated after 127 years, marking a milestone in India's cultural diplomacy.​
About Piprahwa Relics
- Discovery (1898): Unearthed by William Claxton Peppé, an English estate manager, at a Buddhist stupa in Piprahwa, Uttar Pradesh.
- Contents:
- 349 gemstones (sapphires, rubies, crystals)
- Bone fragments believed to belong to Lord Buddha
- Crystal caskets, sandstone coffer, ornaments
- Colonial Removal: Taken abroad during British colonial rule, symbolizing cultural loss.
- Repatriation (2025): Returned to India after 127 years, thanks to efforts by the Government of India and the Godrej Group.
Cultural & Spiritual Importance
- Civilisational Heritage: PM Modi emphasized that these relics are not mere artefacts but an inseparable part of India’s civilisation and spiritual identity.
- Global Connection: The relics have traveled to countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Russia, inspiring waves of devotion.
- Symbolism: Their return highlights India’s role as both custodian and living carrier of Buddha’s tradition.
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