PM Modi Highlights Heartfelt Bhutan Visit; Praises Global Reverence For Buddha Relics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on his visit to Bhutan from 11 to 12 November, describing it as a moment of immense pride. He recounted how the people of Bhutan expressed gratitude to India for sending sacred Buddha relics, emphasising the significance of these gestures in strengthening cultural and spiritual bonds.

“A few weeks ago, I visited Bhutan. During this trip, I met the King of Bhutan, the former King, the Prime Minister, and other dignitaries. Everyone expressed gratitude to the Indians for sending the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha. Whenever I heard that, my heart swelled with pride,” he said.

During the visit, PM Modi joined Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk in seeking blessings from the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha at Thimphu’s Tashichhodzong.

The Prime Minister highlighted the warm reception extended by the local monks, describing the moment as spiritually uplifting.

India sent the relics as a special gesture to mark the Fourth King of Bhutan’s 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival, reflecting its longstanding commitment to Bhutan and the shared Buddhist heritage.

Buddhist Heritage and Global Reach

PM Modi underscored that Buddhism forms a shared cultural heritage between India and Bhutan, with many Bhutanese pilgrims visiting key Buddhist sites across India, including Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Sikkim, Udayagiri, and Sarnath.

PM Modi also highlighted the global enthusiasm for the sacred relics.

He said, “Just last month, we took these relics from the National Museum to Kalmykia in Russia, where many people, even from remote areas, came to see them. The relics have also been displayed in Mongolia, Vietnam, and Thailand, where even the King of Thailand paid his respects.”

Highlighting the universal appeal of Buddhism, PM Modi said, “It is heartwarming to see such a deep connection to the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha across the world. It gives one joy to hear how such initiatives become a medium to connect people globally.”

PM Modi’s reflections emphasise the role of cultural diplomacy and spiritual initiatives in strengthening India’s bonds with other nations.

By promoting the sacred heritage of Lord Buddha, India continues to foster goodwill, cross-cultural understanding, and global respect for its civilisational values.

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