Long Queue of Devotees Highlights Spiritual Fervour for India’s Sacred Relics in Bhutan

Thousands of devotees in Bhutan are queuing to pay homage to the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha brought from India, reflecting deep spiritual fervour and cultural unity between the two nations.

Event Highlights
- Sacred Relics Arrival:
The relics, considered a National Treasure of India, were brought from the National Museum in New Delhi to Bhutan on 8 November 2025 as a goodwill gesture for the Global Peace Prayer Festival (GPPF).

- Venue:
The relics are enshrined at the Grand Kuenrey of Tashichhodzong in Thimphu, one of Bhutan’s most revered Tibetan Buddhist centres.

- Historic Gesture:
The relics include the Piprahwa relics, excavated in 1898 from an ancient stupa in Uttar Pradesh, India.

Spiritual Significance
- Mass Devotion:
Since early morning, thousands of devotees have formed long queues outside the monastery, underscoring the profound spiritual connection of the Bhutanese people with Lord Buddha.

- Ceremonial Welcome:
The relics were received with prayers by Bhutan’s senior monks and the Queen Mother, highlighting the reverence accorded to the occasion.

- Global Peace Prayer Festival:
The exposition coincides with the festival and the 70th birth anniversary of Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuk, adding national importance.

Symbol of Shared Heritage
- The event symbolizes India-Bhutan cultural and spiritual ties, reinforcing Buddhism’s role as a bridge of peace and harmony.
- It also highlights Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness, where spirituality and cultural heritage are integral to daily life.

Duration
- The relics will remain in Bhutan until 18 November 2025, after which they will return to India.

This exposition is not just a religious event but a powerful gesture of goodwill and shared heritage, strengthening India-Bhutan relations while inspiring global prayers for peace.