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Union Minister Kiren Rijiju is in Bhutan to bring back sacred relics of Lord Buddha. These relics were displayed in Bhutan from November 8 to 18. The exposition highlighted the spiritual and cultural ties between India and Bhutan. Bhutan’s Prime Minister thanked India for the significant event. Prime Minister Modi also expressed gratitude for the warm reception of the relics. Union minister Kiren Rijiju NEW DELHI: Union minister Kiren Rijiju left for Bhutan to lead the “Delegation for the Return of Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha,” which had been taken to the Himalayan nation for public exposition. In a post on X, he said he is “leaving for the Kingdom of Bhutan to lead the ‘Delegation for the Return of Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha’ (Enshrined at the National Museum, in New Delhi), which was brought to Bhutan for public exposition.”The relics, enshrined at the National Museum in New Delhi, were sent to Bhutan for exhibition from November 8 to 18, highlighting the deep spiritual and cultural ties between the two neighbours. The Indian delegation accompanying them was led by Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar, along with senior Buddhist monks and officials.‘We Love India’: Bhutan King Reaffirms Ties As PM Modi Unveils Connectivity, Energy BoostThe relics were received at Paro International Airport in a solemn ceremony attended by Bhutan’s Home Minister Tshering, Tshoki Lopen of the Central Monastic Body, Paro Mayor Norbu Wangchuk, Indian Ambassador Sandeep Arya, and other senior officials and monks. The Royal Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck and Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck also offered their respects.Speaking at the event, Virendra Kumar said he was honoured to lead the Indian delegation. “This exposition strengthens the cultural and spiritual ties between India and Bhutan, reinforcing the shared heritage of peace and compassion inspired by Lord Buddha,” he said.Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay thanked the Government of India for bringing the relics to Bhutan. He also appreciated the efforts of India’s Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation, calling the exposition “a significant milestone in Bhutan-India relations.” He further conveyed his appreciation to PM Modi for facilitating the sacred visit.Earlier, on November 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Bhutan’s leadership and people for the warm reception given to the relics during their display. On X, he wrote, “Heartfelt appreciation to the people and leadership of Bhutan for the reverent welcome accorded to the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha from India. These relics symbolise the timeless message of peace, compassion and harmony. The teachings of Lord Buddha are a sacred link between our two nations’ shared spiritual heritage.”The event follows the return of the Piprahwa Jewel Relics to India, which PM Modi described as a moment of national pride. PM Modi, who completed his State visit to Bhutan from November 11 to 12, travelled as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the close partnership and tradition of high-level exchanges between the two neighbours.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Air Pollution Protest At India Gate Turns Violent Amid ‘Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe’ SlogansRajnath Singh’s Sindh Comment Sparks Pakistan Fury As Islamabad Labels India ‘Expansionist’ AgainINS Mahe Commissioned As Indian Navy’s New Aatmanirbhar Submarine Killer For Stronger Coastal ShieldSuicide Bombers Storm Pakistan’s FC Headquarters In Peshawar As Explosions Rock High-Security ZoneJustice Surya Kant, Known For Article 370 Ruling And Pegasus Scrutiny, Takes Oath As India’s New CJI’We May Have Run Away!’: Cyril Ramaphosa’s Joke To PM Modi on Hosting G20 Summit Sparks LaughterHow AQ Khan Became ‘Merchant Of Death’ And Triggered Musharraf’s Outrage, Reveals Ex CIA OperativeIndia, Canada Restart Trade Talks, Aim For $50-Bn Trade By 2030 As Pm Modi Meets Mark CarneyIndia, Italy Launch Joint Initiative To Counter Terror Financing As PM Modi Meets MeloniPiyush Goyal Meets PM Netanyahu, President Herzog As India-Israel FTA Talks Gain Momentum123Photostories10 phrases that can calm down an angry child10 Yoga poses to help kids concentrate better6 smart ways to use ginger without affecting gut healthKyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi fame Sandeep Baswana and Ashlesha Sawant marry after 23 years of living together; share dreamy wedding photosOnce Akshay Kumar, late Irrfan Khan, Manoj Bajpayee’s co-star, THIS actor lost everything and was forced to work as a watchmanKalyani Priyadarshan: Best fashionable moments7 interesting ways to ensure your kids eat eggsAishwarya Rai Bachchan’s approach to raising a confident daughterRoyal babies of 2025: A look at the famous Royal kidsTeaching kids: Who is a stranger? 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