Itanagar: Devotees in Arunachal Pradesh are getting a rare opportunity to pay their respects to the sacred relics of Lord Gautam Buddha, which have been displayed in the state for the first time in 13 years.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the special exposition at the historic Tawang Monastery on Saturday, marking the beginning of a programme that will take the revered relics to three districts, allowing devotees from different parts of the state to offer prayers.
The relics will remain at Tawang Monastery until November 7 before being shifted to West Kameng district, where they will be displayed from November 8 to 14. The final phase of the exposition will take place in Namsai from November 14 to 21.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Khandu acknowledged the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Ministry of Culture in bringing the sacred relics to Arunachal Pradesh.
He highlighted the continued relevance of Lord Buddha’s teachings of compassion, peace and coexistence, particularly at a time when conflicts and uncertainty are affecting several parts of the world. He also expressed gratitude to the 14th Dalai Lama for his blessings and greetings on the occasion.
The Chief Minister read out a message from Prime Minister Modi highlighting India’s efforts to preserve and promote its Buddhist heritage. These initiatives include the development of important pilgrimage destinations such as Bodh Gaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar, international Buddhist conferences and the return of the Piprahwa relics after more than a century.
The occasion also witnessed the announcement of the Arunachal Buddhist Confederation, a new organisation aimed at bringing together the state’s Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist communities under a common platform.
Venerable Agadhamma, Chief Monk of Namsai Pariyatti Sasana Buddhist Vihara, has been appointed as its first president, while Thupten Kalden, Director of the Department of Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs, will serve as Secretary General.
The Confederation is expected to seek affiliation with the International Buddhist Confederation to strengthen coordination among Buddhist institutions.
Khandu also highlighted the Centre’s proposed initiative to develop Buddhist heritage sites across the Northeast, noting its potential to preserve religious and historical landmarks while promoting spiritual tourism.
