PM Modi Inaugurates Piprahwa Relics Exposition in Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Bhagwan Buddha, titled “The Light and the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in New Delhi. The event marks a significant moment in India’s cultural and spiritual history, showcasing sacred Buddhist relics repatriated after more than a century.

Significance of the Piprahwa Relics

Addressing the gathering, “Narendra Modi” said the return of the Piprahwa relics after 125 years symbolised the homecoming of India’s heritage. He stressed that these relics are not mere artefacts but sacred links to Lord Buddha and an inseparable part of India’s civilisation. Discovered in 1898, the Piprahwa relics are among the earliest archaeological finds directly associated with Bhagwan Buddha. The site is widely linked to ancient Kapilavastu, where Buddha is believed to have spent his early life before renunciation.

India’s Role in Preserving Buddhist Heritage

The Prime Minister emphasised that India is not only the custodian of Lord Buddha’s relics but also a living carrier of his timeless teachings. He noted that the wisdom of Buddha belongs to all humanity. India, he said, has consistently contributed to the preservation and development of Buddhist heritage sites worldwide. Domestically, Buddhist pilgrimage centres are being modernised with improved facilities to support pilgrims and scholars.

Language, Legacy and Repatriation Efforts

Mr Modi highlighted the importance of the Pali language, in which Lord Buddha’s teachings were originally conveyed. To promote wider understanding, the government has accorded Pali the status of a classical language. He also referred to recent efforts to prevent the auction of sacred relics in international markets, stating that such relics are part of India’s spiritual and social fabric. The exposition brings together Piprahwa relics preserved at the “National Museum” and the “Indian Museum”, reunified after 127 years.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Piprahwa relics were discovered in 1898.
• The site is associated with ancient Kapilavastu.
• Pali has been granted classical language status in India.
• Relics are linked to early archaeological evidence of Buddhism.

Cultural Vision and Institutional Cooperation

Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the reunification of the Piprahwa gem relics reflects national pride and sustained government effort. He noted that the Ministry of Culture is focused on heritage preservation, manuscript digitisation, and strengthening cultural traditions. The exposition underscores India’s enduring civilisational connection with Buddhism and highlights the role of institutional cooperation and public-private partnerships in safeguarding spiritual heritage.