The Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama, received the sacred relics of Lord Buddha from Kapilavastu on Thursday morning.
These revered relics, housed at the RajaGuru Sri Subuthi Waskaduwa Maha Viharaya, a Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, hold immense historical and spiritual significance, connecting devotees to the profound legacy of Lord Buddha.
The Sri Subhuthi Maha Viharaya in Waskaduwa is home to 21 relics of Lord Buddha. ‘Waskaduwe Mahindawamsa Nayaka Thero’ serves as the custodian of these precious Kapilavastu relics, which have been preserved and protected for generations.
Earlier in March, the relics of Lord Buddha, along with those of his two main disciples, Arahant Sariputta and Maha Moggallana, embarked on a 25-day exposition across four cities in Thailand. The exposition witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 4 million devotees from Thailand and neighbouring countries paying homage to the relics.
Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the revered relics’ exposition travelled to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ubon Ratchathani, and Krabi provinces, commencing from New Delhi on February 22.
In February, on the occasion of Chotrul Duechen, the Dalai Lama imparted a short general teaching from the Jataka Tales at the Main Tibetan Temple, Tsuglagkhang, in Dharamshala. Over 3000 Tibetan followers, including Buddhist monks, nuns, and foreigners from various parts of the world, attended the event.
Chotrul Duechen, also known as the “Great Day of Miraculous Manifestations,” is celebrated on the 15th day of the 1st Tibetan month and commemorates significant events in the life of the Buddha.