In a move that highlights India’s deep spiritual ties with Vietnam, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati will lead a special Indian delegation to bring back the sacred relics of Lord Buddha from Vietnam on June 2, officials from the Raj Bhavan confirmed.
The relics, which hold immense significance for Buddhists worldwide, were taken from India to Vietnam earlier this month to be part of the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations held from May 6 to 8. They are currently on display at various Vietnamese cities including Ho Chi Minh City, Tay Ninh, and Hanoi.
“These relics symbolize the timeless spiritual bond between India and Vietnam,” said Governor Kambhampati. “It is a great honour to accompany them back to their homeland. This journey reflects our shared cultural heritage and strengthens our bilateral ties.”
The sacred relics originated from Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and were transported to Vietnam in a special Indian Air Force aircraft. They were accompanied by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, Buddhist monks, and senior Indian officials. A cultural troupe also traveled to perform “The Journey of Gautama Buddha”, a dance drama based on Buddha’s life and teachings.
The relics were provided by the Mahabodhi Society of India and the National Museum, under the Ministry of Culture, in coordination with the International Buddhist Confederation.
The final exhibit of the relics will take place on June 2 in Da Nang City, after which they will be flown back to India in a special IAF aircraft led by the Odisha Governor’s delegation.
This sacred repatriation is expected to further deepen India-Vietnam cultural diplomacy and reaffirm India’s position as the birthplace and spiritual home of Buddhism.
