Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, while speaking at the curtain raiser for the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Tathagata at National Museum, New Delhi today, hailed the exposition as a historic initiative for global peace, noting that for the first time in India, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha - preserved at their original repository are being brought out for public exposition. The Union Minister further stated that the exposition would serve as a powerful medium to promote the message of global peace and harmony and he emphasized that the teachings of Lord Buddha on non-violence, compassion and inner awakening hold deep relevance in today’s global context marked by uncertainty and conflict.  

Talking on the importance of Ladakh as a centre of Buddhist heritage, the Union Minister stated that the exposition will not only provide an opportunity for spiritual engagement but also provide a major boost cultural tourism in the region. He noted that similar international expositions of the sacred relics have drawn large participation across countries, strengthening India’s cultural and civilizational connect globally.

The exposition is being organised by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh and the International Buddhist Confederation, in Ladakh from 1st May to 15th May 2026, with participation expected from international delegations, ambassadors, eminent Rinpoches, Union Ministers, and Chief Ministers.

The 15-day programme will include public veneration of the sacred relics, grand processions, traditional ceremonies, and a wide range of parallel events such as meditation sessions, yoga camps, health initiatives, cultural performances, exhibitions, and international conferences on Himalayan Buddhism. For more details, kindly visit https://tathagata.co.in/.

Key venues include the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, Dharma Centre, Leh Palace, and CIBS. The exposition will also extend to Zanskar from 11th to 12th May, followed by a closing ceremony in Leh on 14th May and departure of the sacred relics on 15th May 2026.

Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, was also graced the event with Shri Abhijit Halder, Director General, International Buddhist Confederation and other senior officers from the Ministry.

The event concluded with a shared commitment among all stakeholders to ensure the successful management of this landmark spiritual and cultural initiative, reinforcing India’s position as the global centre of Buddhist heritage.

Detailed Presentation

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M Annadurai