New Delhi, February 4: The sacred Devnimori relics of Lord Buddha arrived in Sri Lanka on Wednesday via an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft for a historic international exhibition. This event is seen as a significant moment to further strengthen the deep cultural and spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, a special atmosphere of religious reverence and respect was evident in Sri Lanka.
At the airport, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senewiratne, along with the Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, AHMH Abeyratne, formally welcomed the Devnimori relics alongside the acting High Commissioner. The presence of Buddhist monks, officials, and devotees added to the dignity of the occasion.
The exhibition will take place from February 4 to 10 at the renowned Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital. Organizers anticipate thousands of devotees and visitors will flock to the temple during this period. The Gangaramaya Temple, one of Sri Lanka’s major Buddhist sites, has made extensive and organized arrangements for the safe display and public viewing of the relics.
Before departing for Sri Lanka, special sacred chants and rituals were conducted at the National Museum in the capital and later at the airport. A large number of devotees and officials participated in these ceremonies, expressing their faith and respect for the relics through prayer. This scene reflected the profound spiritual traditions of Buddhism.
The Devnimori relics, considered extremely sacred by followers of Buddhism, are traveling abroad for the first time for an international public exhibition. Officials state that this historic event will attract thousands of devotees and tourists from Sri Lanka and other countries, thereby increasing global awareness of Buddhist heritage.
Authorities noted that this exhibition symbolizes the centuries-old spiritual, historical, and civilizational ties between India and Sri Lanka. It is also viewed as a strengthening of India’s cultural diplomacy and ongoing efforts to promote Buddhist heritage throughout the region. This initiative is expected to deepen mutual understanding and contact between the peoples of both nations.
It is noteworthy that Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced this exhibition during his visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025. This step reflects India’s commitment to sharing its rich Buddhist heritage with the world and underscores its role as a responsible custodian of global Buddhist heritage.
Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, along with several ministers and senior officials, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making this sacred event possible. They stated that this initiative will help elevate the spiritual and cultural relations between the two countries to new heights.
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