PM Modi Inaugurates Exhibition of Reunited Piprahwa Buddha Relics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a grand international exhibition of sacred relics of Lord Buddha in New Delhi, marking a landmark moment in the preservation of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. The exhibition has attracted historians, scholars, and Buddhist followers from India and abroad.

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PM Modi Inaugurates Exhibition of Reunited Piprahwa Buddha Relics

Historic Reunification of Piprahwa Relics

Titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, the exhibition features the sacred Piprahwa relics of Gautama Buddha, which have been reunited after 127 years.

These gem relics were repatriated to India and are being displayed along with archaeological materials recovered during:

• The original excavation in 1898
• Subsequent excavations between 1971 and 1975

The reunification is considered a major achievement in India’s heritage conservation efforts.

Venue and Institutional Collaboration

The exhibition is being held at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex. It brings together authenticated relics, gem relics, and reliquaries preserved by leading national institutions, including:

• National Museum, New Delhi
• Indian Museum, Kolkata

The display showcases India’s archaeological scholarship and long-standing commitment to safeguarding Buddhist heritage.

Prime Minister’s Message and Cultural Vision

Prime Minister Modi stated that the exhibition reflects India’s commitment to popularising the teachings of Bhagwan Buddha and strengthening cultural awareness among the youth. He emphasised that reconnecting younger generations with India’s civilisational values is essential for preserving cultural continuity.

He also acknowledged the efforts of individuals and institutions involved in the repatriation of the Piprahwa relics after more than a century.

Broader Cultural and Diplomatic Significance

The exhibition has generated strong interest among international Buddhist communities, reinforcing India’s role as the spiritual homeland of Buddhism. By hosting the reunited Piprahwa relics, India has reaffirmed its position as a global centre for:

• Buddhist heritage
• Archaeological research
• Cultural diplomacy

Exam-Oriented Key Facts

• Piprahwa is an important archaeological site linked to relics of Lord Buddha
• Original excavation at Piprahwa took place in 1898
• Relics include bodily remains, objects, and gem relics
• Exhibition titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”
• Venue: Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi

Question & Answer

Q1. The Piprahwa relics displayed in New Delhi are associated with which religious figure?
(a) Mahavira
(b) Ashoka
(c) Gautama Buddha
(d) Nagarjuna
Answer: Gautama Buddha

Q2. The exhibition titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One” was inaugurated by whom?
(a) President of India
(b) Culture Minister
(c) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
(d) Vice President of India
Answer: Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Q3. The original excavation of the Piprahwa relics was conducted in which year?
(a) 1857
(b) 1898
(c) 1947
(d) 1971
Answer: 1898

Q4. Where is the exhibition of the Piprahwa relics being held?
(a) National Museum, Delhi
(b) Indian Museum, Kolkata
(c) Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi
(d) Sarnath Museum
Answer: Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi

Q5. The reunification of Piprahwa relics highlights India’s efforts in which area?
(a) Defence modernisation
(b) Cultural and archaeological repatriation
(c) Space research
(d) Industrial heritage
Answer: Cultural and archaeological repatriation

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