Buddha’s Sacred Relics Draw 17 million Devotees in Vietnam: Departure from Delhi on June 4

Buddha’s Sacred Relics Draw 17 million Devotees in Vietnam: Departure from Delhi on June 4 (PTI image)

In a remarkable spiritual journey, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha, enshrined in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, concluded a month-long exposition across Vietnam, attracting a record 17.8 million devotees. The relics, brought to Ho Chi Minh City on May 2, returned to Delhi on June 2 via a special Indian Air Force aircraft, after creating a profound spiritual impact.

The holy relics were taken to Vietnam to mark the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations. In a statement, the Ministry of Culture noted that this sacred tour sparked a nationwide spiritual wave, bringing together Buddhists and seekers from different regions of Vietnam.

Key Locations and Devotee Turnout:

• Ay Thanh Tâm Monastery, Ho Chi Minh City (May 3–8): 18.77 lakh devotees
• Quan Su Pagoda, Hanoi (May 13–17): Over 70 lakh devotees
• Tam Chuc Pagoda, Ha Nam Province (May 17–19): Over 20 lakh devotees
• Relic Procession at Hanoi: Attracted 20 lakh people

The overwhelming public devotion led the Vietnamese Government to extend the exposition until June 2, beyond the initially planned date of May 21.

Return to India and Final Ceremonies

The sacred relics arrived in Delhi on the night of June 2, accompanied by a high-level Indian delegation led by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati. They were welcomed at Palam Air Force Station by senior monks and representatives of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

June 3 – Public Darshan at National Museum

On June 3, the holy relics will be placed for public viewing at the National Museum, Delhi. A prayer meeting will be held in the afternoon, led by senior monks and diplomatic officials.

June 4 – Departure to Sarnath

On June 4, the relics will depart in a Presidential cavalcade with full state protocol. They will be taken to Sarnath via Varanasi and ceremoniously enshrined at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, marking the end of this historic international pilgrimage.

This is the first time that Lord Buddha’s relics were displayed in Vietnam, creating a powerful message of peace, compassion, and cultural solidarity. Treated with the status of a State Guest, the relics served as a spiritual bridge between India and Vietnam. Their return marks not just the end of a journey, but the beginning of renewed faith among millions worldwide.