PM Modi unveils sacred Buddha gems after 127 years

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics, titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One,” at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, marking the reunification of the Piprahwa gem relics of Lord Buddha after 127 years.

The exhibition brings together relics, gem relics and ancient reliquaries excavated from the Piprahwa site in 1898 and during subsequent excavations between 1971 and 1975. The repatriated relics are being displayed alongside artefacts preserved in the collections of the National Museum in New Delhi and the Indian Museum in Kolkata.

Sharing photographs from the event on social media, Modi urged people to visit the exposition. He said the exhibition reflects the government’s commitment to popularising the teachings of Lord Buddha and strengthening the connection between India’s youth and its cultural heritage. The Prime Minister also thanked those involved in the repatriation of the relics, calling the reunification a historic moment.


The exposition has drawn interest from historians, cultural scholars and Buddhist followers from India and abroad, highlighting India’s efforts to preserve and showcase its ancient civilisational heritage.

Earlier in the day, Modi paid tributes to social reformer Savitribai Phule and freedom fighter Rani Velu Nachiyar on their birth anniversaries. Remembering Phule, he said she devoted her life to social transformation through education and service, and remained committed to equality, justice and compassion. He described education as the cornerstone of her work to bring about social change.

Savitribai Phule, regarded as India’s first woman teacher, was a pioneering figure in women’s education and social reform. Along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, she established one of the country’s first schools for girls in Pune in 1848 and worked against caste- and gender-based discrimination.

Paying tribute to Rani Velu Nachiyar, Modi described her as one of India’s most valiant heroines who challenged colonial rule and asserted India’s right to self-governance. He said her courage, strategic acumen and commitment to good governance continue to inspire future generations.

Rani Velu Nachiyar was the first woman ruler to wage an armed struggle against the British. After the death of her husband, she regrouped with the support of allies including Hyder Ali and led a successful campaign against British forces in 1780.

(With inputs from agencies)