OUT 18: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, has reached Russia to bring back the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha to India after their successful exposition in Elista, the capital of the Republic of Kalmykia.
Speaking to media after offering prayers at the Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, popularly known as the Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha, Shri Sinha said the exposition marks a landmark moment of spiritual unity between India and Russia. He added that the event represents a historic homecoming of faith for the Kalmyk people — Europe’s only Buddhist nation — and serves as a spiritual bridge of friendship rooted in Buddha’s teachings.
The Lieutenant Governor offered a “Khatak” (ceremonial scarf), lit a lamp of reverence, and presented a Kashmiri shawl to the temple’s senior monks, receiving blessings from Bakula Rinpoche and Shajin Lama. Shri Sinha expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for granting him the sacred opportunity to lead this mission, stating, “The exposition of Lord Buddha’s Holy Relics strengthens the timeless ties between India and Russia.”
During the week-long exposition, over 90,000 devotees paid homage to the sacred relics, which are recognized as a National Treasure of India. The event, organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), National Museum, and IGNCA, highlighted the enduring legacy of Buddhist diplomacy and cultural exchange between both nations.
The delegation led by Shri Sinha will bring back the relics to India on October 19, 2025, marking the conclusion of this historic spiritual journey.