In a profound display of spiritual reverence and shared cultural heritage, the exposition of Lord Buddha’s Sacred Relics from India has drawn an overwhelming response in the Republic of Kalmykia, Russia. Over 50,000 devotees have paid homage to these revered relics, enshrined at the iconic Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, popularly known as the “Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha.” This event marks a significant milestone in fostering spiritual and cultural bonds between India and Russia.
Distinguished Indian Delegation
The sacred relics, revered as a National Treasure of India, were brought to Elista, the capital of Kalmykia, by a high-level delegation led by Shri Keshav Prasad Maurya, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, accompanied by senior Indian monks. The delegation has been conducting special religious services and blessings, resonating deeply with Kalmykia’s predominantly Buddhist population—the only region in Europe where Buddhism is the primary faith.
Immense Spiritual Enthusiasm
Since the exposition began on October 11, 2025, the spiritual fervor has been extraordinary. On October 18, a queue of devotees stretched nearly one kilometer from the monastery, reflecting the profound significance of this event. The Golden Abode, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist center established in 1996 amidst the vast Kalmyk steppe, has welcomed a continuous stream of pilgrims from dawn to dusk.
Strengthening India-Russia Cultural Ties
This historic exposition, the first of its kind in the Russian Republic, underscores the deep civilizational connections between India and Russia. It also pays tribute to the legacy of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist monk and diplomat from Ladakh, who played a crucial role in reviving Buddhism in Mongolia and rekindling interest in Buddha Dharma in Russian regions like Kalmykia, Buryatia, and Tuva.
Collaborative Organization
The event has been meticulously organized by the Buddhist Texts and Images (BTI) section of India’s Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the National Museum, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). The exposition, running until October 18, 2025, has been a testament to seamless international cooperation.
A Beacon of Shared Buddhist Heritage
India’s initiative to share these sacred relics highlights the enduring spiritual connection between the peoples of India and Russia. This event fosters a deeper sense of cultural unity and reverence, strengthening the bonds of shared Buddhist heritage.
