Historic Buddhist Relics Exposition Concludes in Russia

The holy relics of Lord Buddha concluded a highly successful week-long public exposition in Elista, Russia, attracting more than 90,000 spiritual seekers. The event, held at the Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, celebrated the deep-rooted Buddhist connections between India and Russia. The relics have now been returned to India under the guidance of Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. This significant cultural exchange, from October 11 to 18, was hailed for its role in fostering goodwill, trust, and cooperation through shared spiritual experiences. The relics, considered a National Treasure of India, were previously transported to Elista by a distinguished Indian delegation, which included key religious figures and leaders. They performed sacred rituals to bestow blessings upon the residents of Kalmykia, a region known for its predominantly Buddhist population. The exhibition highlighted the enduring civilizational links and honored the profound legacy of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, a pivotal figure in promoting Buddhism in Mongolia and across various Russian republics.