Return of the Sacred Devnimori Relics of
Lord Buddha to India: A New Strengthening of India-Sri Lanka Buddhist Ties
The return of the Sacred Devnimori Relics of Lord
Buddha to India, following the successful completion of their first
international exhibition in Sri Lanka, is a highly significant event from a
historical and cultural perspective. This initiative not only further
strengthens the deep Buddhist ties between India and Sri Lanka but also clearly
underlines India's active role in the preservation of global Buddhist heritage.
The Devnimori Relics are associated with the Devnimori
Stupa in Gujarat, where sacred bone relics belonging to Lord Buddha were
discovered during archaeological excavations. These relics are viewed with
great reverence and respect by followers of Buddhism. During their display in
Sri Lanka, large numbers of devotees and monks visited, further strengthening
the spiritual and cultural bonds between the two countries.
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The relics were displayed
at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo from 4 to 10 February 2026 and returned on
11 February 2026.
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This mark the first
international exposition of the Devnimori Relics.
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Over one million devotees
paid homage during the seven-day public veneration.
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Special exhibitions
titled Unearthing the Sacred Piprahwa and Sacred Relic and Cultural Engagement
of Contemporary India were organised to highlight shared Buddhist heritage.
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The relics were
originally discovered at Devnimori in Gujarat and are associated with India’s
ancient Buddhist legacy.
Significance of the Exposition
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The event strengthened
centuries-old civilisational and spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka,
rooted in Buddhism.
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It reinforced India’s
position as a custodian of global Buddhist heritage.
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It enhanced
people-to-people and cultural linkages between the two nations.
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The return of the relics
symbolised shared faith, gratitude and mutual respect.
About the Devnimori Relics
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The Devnimori was
excavated in 1957 by archaeologist Prof. S. N. Chowdhry.
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The relics were found
within a Buddhist stupa complex in Gujarat.
¨ The Casket is made up of green schist and bears the inscription “dashabala sharira nilaya,” meaning the abode of Lord Buddha’s bodily relics.
¨ The relics are preservedat the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.
