Bhutan Bids Farewell to Lord Buddha’s Holy Relics from India with Traditional Ceremony in Thimphu
Thimphu/New Delhi, Nov 26 — Bhutan on Tuesday bid a ceremonial farewell to the holy Lord Buddha relics from India after their successful public exposition at the Grand Kuenray Hall in Tashichhodzong. The relics, sent as a special gesture of friendship between the two nations, were honoured with traditional prayers and rituals before beginning their return journey to India.
The farewell ceremony was attended by an esteemed gathering including Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, the Laytshog Lopen of the Central Monastic Body, Home and Health Ministers of Bhutan, and venerable monks from both nations.
Event Overview
The relics were enshrined in Bhutan from November 8 to November 25, 2025, as part of the Global Peace Prayer Festival and in honour of the Fourth King of Bhutan’s 70th birth anniversary. Their presence drew thousands of devotees, symbolising the deep spiritual and cultural connection shared between India and Bhutan.
Sharing details on X, Kiren Rijiju wrote:
“Holy Buddha Relics enshrined at the Grand Kuenray Hall, Thimphu since 8 Nov 2025 were bid farewell today morning with traditional prayers and ceremony attended by His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Prime Minister of Bhutan, Laytshog Lopen of Central Monastic Body, Home Minister of Bhutan, Health Minister of Bhutan and venerable monks from India and Bhutan.”
India–Bhutan Spiritual Ties Strengthened
The sacred relics, which were sent from India as a special gesture, served as a symbol of peace, harmony, and mutual respect between the two Himalayan neighbours. Their public exposition was one of the most significant spiritual events Bhutan has hosted in recent years.
The visit also marks an important cultural exchange, reinforcing ties through shared Buddhist traditions.
During his visit, Rijiju held discussions with the Bhutanese King, conveying Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm greetings and gratitude for the reverence shown by the Bhutanese people.
In another post, the Union Minister shared:
“His Majesty the King conveyed thankfulness for the exposition of Holy Buddha Relics in Thimphu and the opportune visit of the Prime Minister of India to Bhutan earlier this month.”
Meeting with Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay
Rijiju also met Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, discussing the deep-rooted partnership and shared values that continue to shape bilateral relations.
After the meeting, he posted:
“Great pleasure meeting Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan. The exchange reflected the depth of India–Bhutan friendship & the values we continue to uphold together. Deeply touched by Bhutan’s sincere reverence for the Holy Buddha Relics, which continue to inspire harmony and connection between our peoples.”
The two leaders reaffirmed commitment to enhancing cooperation, cultural ties, border connectivity and ongoing development projects.
Significance of the Relic Exposition
The exposition marked:
- A historic spiritual collaboration between India and Bhutan
- A tribute to the Fourth King’s 70th birth anniversary
- A key highlight of the Global Peace Prayer Festival
- A reaffirmation of shared Buddhist heritage and values of compassion, peace, and unity
Thousands of Bhutanese citizens, monks, and international visitors paid homage to the relics during their stay in Thimphu.
Conclusion
The farewell ceremony for the Buddha relics marks yet another chapter in the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan. As the relics return home, both nations continue to strengthen cultural, spiritual and diplomatic ties built on mutual respect, shared history and deep-rooted values.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
The sacred relics' journey to Bhutan and their emotional farewell reflect the timeless spiritual bridge between the two countries. Beyond religious significance, this exchange reinforces India–Bhutan ties at a moment where cultural diplomacy is increasingly vital. The reverence displayed in Bhutan underscores the powerful impact of shared heritage in shaping regional harmony.