Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced that India will send the holy relics of Lord Buddha’s two great disciples, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, to Mongolia next year.
While addressing a joint press meet with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa after their talks at Hyderabad House, PM Modi said, “The relationship between India and Mongolia is not merely diplomatic — it is a bond of warmth and spirituality. The true depth and breadth of our relationship is reflected in our people-to-people ties. For centuries, both countries have been bound by the thread of Buddhism, which has led to us being called spiritual siblings. Today, to further strengthen this tradition and give new strength to our historical ties, we have taken several important decisions.”
He announced that next year, India will send the holy relics of two great disciples of Lord Buddha, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, to Mongolia. He also stated that India will send a Sanskrit teacher to Gandan Monastery to study the Buddhist texts in depth and carry forward the ancient tradition of knowledge.
Linking Nalanda and Gandan Monastery
PM Modi mentioned that Nalanda University has played a vital role in the development of Buddhism in Mongolia. He announced that both nations have decided to link Nalanda University and Gandan Monastery to strengthen academic and cultural cooperation.
“Our meeting today began with a tree plantation as part of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. The banyan tree sapling planted by President Khurelsukh in the name of his late mother will remain a symbol of our deep friendship and our shared commitment to the environment for generations to come,” he said.
PM Modi welcomed President Khurelsukh and his delegation to India. The PM said that the President’s visit after six years is a very special occasion, taking place as India and Mongolia celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of Strategic Partnership. He added that both countries have issued a joint postal stamp to symbolise their shared heritage.
He further announced, “We have decided to provide free e-visas to Mongolian citizens. India will also sponsor the annual visit of young cultural ambassadors from Mongolia to India.”
Recalling his 2015 visit to Mongolia, PM Modi said, “Ten years ago, during my visit to Mongolia, we elevated our partnership to a Strategic Partnership. Over the past decade, this partnership has gained new depth and breadth in every aspect. Our defence and security cooperation is also steadily strengthening.”
Through these announcements, PM Modi reinforced India’s enduring spiritual and cultural bonds with Mongolia. He also underlined the shared values of faith, friendship, and future collaboration between the two nations.
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