New Delhi, February 5: The sacred relics of Lord Buddha have arrived in Sri Lanka aboard an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft for a historic exhibition. The relics are now displayed at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, where the exhibition has officially commenced.
The relics were brought to Sri Lanka under the leadership of Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi, accompanied by senior monks and officials.
In accordance with established protocols and to honor the sanctity of the relics, the Indian Air Force’s special aircraft arrived with full state honors. This gesture reflects India’s commitment to preserving its sacred heritage with respect.
The Indian delegation, led by Deputy CM Harsh Sanghvi, participated in ceremonial, religious, and official events in Colombo. The exhibition, showcasing India’s Buddhist heritage and contemporary cultural connections, was formally inaugurated.
Earlier, the Indian High Commission in Colombo announced that the sacred relics will be displayed at the Gangaramaya Temple from February 4 to 11, with public worship beginning on February 5. The relics are scheduled to return on February 11.
This exhibition is a significant initiative in spiritual outreach and cultural diplomacy, advancing the vision expressed during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025.
The relics originate from the Devnimori archaeological site near Shamalaji in Gujarat’s Aravalli district, a location of historical and spiritual significance. The site was first discovered by archaeologist Professor S.N. Chaudhary in 1957.
The relics are now housed in a desiccator, sealed within airtight glass to prevent deterioration. They are preserved in a silver-copper bottle with a gold layer and placed on a cotton base wrapped in silk for optimal protection.
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