The Holy Relics Return: A Journey Through Two Nations
Today in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the joy of Vesak Day celebrations began. This is not just an event for the locals; it marks the return of the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha, a task that has never been completed. The Indian delegation from India joined by monks and senior officials, bringing their sacred items to the country for the first time in years.
Introduction In Vietnam today, May 6–8, Vesak Day celebrations will kick off with the arrival of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha. These ancient treasures are a testament to the deep-rooted bond between India and Vietnam, two nations that have always shared a profound spiritual connection. The Indian delegation— Led by Shri Kiren Rijiju (Union Minister) and Shri Kandula Durgesh (Andhra Pradesh Minister)—will bring their sacred items on May 2–21, 2025, as part of Vesak Day celebrations.
The Arrival of the Sacred Relics In a significant cultural and spiritual milestone, the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha arrived in Ho Chi Minh City today aboard a special aircraft from India. This is not just an event for the locals; it marks the beginning of the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations in Vietnam from May 6–8, 2025.
The Indian delegation, along with monks and senior officials, were warmly received by the Government of Vietnam and the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. The sacred items are being exhibited under the care of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the National Museum of India, and the International Buddha Confederation.
Enshrinement at Thanh Tam Monastery Following ceremonial prayers, a Sacred Bodhi Tree sapling was also planted at the Vietnam Buddhist University, reflecting the profound and shared spiritual values that unite both nations. The enshrinement of the Holy Relics will remain in Thanh Tam Monastery until May 7, 2025, before continuing to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21, 2025.
A Joint Press Conference The Indian delegation conveyed a heartfelt message from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the people of India during a joint press conference held at Thanh Tam Monastery. The Government of Vietnam expressed its sincere gratitude for this sacred gesture, which stands as a symbol of the enduring civilizational and spiritual ties between the two countries.
Public Exposition and Cultural Programs The Sacred Relics will be displayed with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the National Museum of India, and the International Buddha Confederation until May 21, 2025. A grand public procession brought the Sacred Relics to Thanh Tam Pagoda, where they will remain on public exposition. Cultural programs, including a specially curated exhibition and a dance-drama on the life of Lord Buddha, will accompany the celebrations, underscoring the deep-rooted India-Vietnam Buddhist heritage.
Conclusion The arrival of these sacred items is not just an event for the locals; it marks the beginning of a meaningful cultural connection between two nations that have always shared a profound spiritual bond. The Indian delegation’s contribution and the symbolic planting at the Vietnam Buddhist University are just the first steps in this journey, but they set the stage for an even deeper connection to be established.
In Ho Chi Minh City today, Vesak Day celebrations begin with the return of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha. This is not just a task—it marks the beginning of a meaningful cultural and spiritual milestone between India and Vietnam, two nations that have always been one step closer to understanding each other’s deep-rooted spiritual connections.