The Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, accompanied by Indian Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Andhra Pradesh Minister Kandula Durgesh, monks, and officials, arrived in Ho Chi Minh City today aboard a special Indian aircraft. The visit marks the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations in Vietnam from May 6-8. Received with reverence by Vietnamese leaders and monks, the Relics were enshrined at Thanh Tam Monastery following ceremonial prayers.
A Sacred Bodhi tree sapling from India was planted at the Vietnam Buddhist University. The Relics, brought from Sarnath and supported by the Mahabodhi Society, National Museum of India, and International Buddha Confederation, will be displayed in Ho Chi Minh City until May 7, then in Tay Ninh, Ha Noi, and Ha Nam until May 21. A curated exhibition and cultural performances highlighting India-Vietnam Buddhist ties will also be held, including a special dance-drama on the life of Gautama Buddha.
