New Delhi, April 22: Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, spoke at the inauguration of an exhibition featuring the sacred relics of Tathagata Buddha at the National Museum in New Delhi on Wednesday. He described the exhibition as a historic initiative for global peace. This marks the first time that Buddha’s sacred relics, preserved in their original location, are being publicly displayed in India. The minister emphasized that this exhibition will serve as a powerful medium to promote the message of global peace and harmony. He highlighted the relevance of Buddha’s teachings on non-violence, compassion, and self-awareness in today’s uncertain and conflict-ridden global landscape.
The minister also discussed the significance of Ladakh as a center of Buddhist heritage, stating that the exhibition will not only provide an opportunity for spiritual engagement but will also significantly boost cultural tourism in the region. He noted that similar international exhibitions of sacred relics have seen participation from numerous countries, strengthening India’s cultural and civilizational ties globally.
Organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Ladakh Union Territory Administration and the International Buddhist Confederation, the exhibition will take place in Ladakh from May 1 to May 15, 2026. It is expected to attract international delegations, ambassadors, renowned Rinpoches, central ministers, and chief ministers.
The 15-day event will feature public viewings of the sacred relics, a grand procession, traditional ceremonies, meditation sessions, yoga camps, health initiatives, cultural presentations, exhibitions, and an international conference on Himalayan Buddhism. Key venues include the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, Dharma Centre, Leh Palace, and CIBS. The exhibition will extend to Zanskar from May 11 to 12, culminating in a closing ceremony in Leh on May 14, followed by the departure of the sacred relics on May 15, 2026.
The event was attended by Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena, International Buddhist Confederation’s Director General Abhijit Halder, and other senior officials from the ministry. The program concluded with a shared commitment among all stakeholders to ensure the successful management of this historic spiritual and cultural initiative, further solidifying India’s position as a global center of Buddhist heritage.
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