Diplomacy – India Carries Sacred Buddhist Relics to Mongolia Exhibition
Diplomacy – India has sent the sacred relics of two of Lord Buddha’s most respected disciples to Mongolia as part of a major spiritual and cultural outreach programme aimed at strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two countries. Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya is leading the Indian delegation accompanying the relics of Arhant Sariputra and Arhant Maudgalyayana, which have been preserved at the Sanchi Vihar Chaitya in Madhya Pradesh. The exhibition has been organised under the Ministry of Culture and is expected to draw large numbers of devotees and scholars in Mongolia.
Sacred Relics Begin Historic Journey
The revered relics, associated with two of the Buddha’s foremost disciples, departed India with full ceremonial honours on May 30, 2026. They will remain in Mongolia until June 9 as part of a special public exposition. The initiative reflects India’s continuing efforts to deepen cultural and spiritual engagement with Mongolia, a nation that shares a strong connection with Buddhist traditions.
Originating from the historic Sanchi Stupa complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the relics are regarded as highly significant by Buddhist communities around the world. Their visit is being viewed as an important moment in the preservation and celebration of shared religious heritage.
Cultural Ties at the Centre of the Initiative
Officials have described the exhibition as an important symbol of friendship between India and Mongolia. The programme has been undertaken with the objective of promoting people-to-people connections and reinforcing centuries-old civilisational links rooted in Buddhist philosophy and teachings.
During the exhibition period, monks, spiritual practitioners, researchers and members of the public are expected to visit the venue to pay their respects. Organisers believe the event will serve not only as a religious gathering but also as a platform for cultural understanding between the two nations.
Governor Acharya is scheduled to return to India on June 3, while the exposition will continue in Mongolia for several more days.
Historical Legacy of Buddha’s Chief Disciples
Before the relics were transported overseas, they were displayed at the National Museum in New Delhi. Speaking about their historical significance, Shakil Siddiqui, Editor-in-Chief of the Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka’s Sanchi centre, highlighted the lives and contributions of Arhant Sariputra and Arhant Maha Moggallana.
According to Siddiqui, both disciples were born on the same day and chose a spiritual path over worldly pursuits. Their dedication and abilities later earned them recognition as the Buddha’s principal disciples. Sariputra became renowned for his profound understanding of Buddhist teachings and was often associated with the spread of Dharma, while Maha Moggallana was known for extraordinary spiritual attainments.
Journey of the Relics Through History
The two disciples are believed to have spent around four decades serving and assisting Lord Buddha before returning to their native region, where they eventually passed away. Historical accounts state that Gautam Buddha ordered the construction of a stupa in Vaishali to preserve their ashes.
Several centuries later, Emperor Ashoka is said to have relocated the relics to Sanchi, where they have remained an important part of India’s Buddhist heritage. Their preservation at the site has contributed to Sanchi’s status as one of the most significant Buddhist landmarks in the world.
Continuing International Outreach
This is not the first time the relics have travelled abroad. In 2024, they were displayed in Thailand, attracting widespread public interest. The current visit to Mongolia marks another important chapter in India’s efforts to share its Buddhist heritage with international audiences.
The upcoming exposition is expected to further strengthen spiritual connections while highlighting the enduring influence of Buddhist traditions across Asia.