Arunachal Pradesh hosts sacred Lord Buddha relics after 13 years
Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced the formation of a state Buddhist confederation during the inaugural ceremony in Itanagar.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu attended the opening of a sacred exhibition of Lord Buddha's holy relics at Gaden Namgyal Lhatse Monastery on Saturday, according to The Hawk. The event marks the return of the relics to the state after 13 years.
The exhibition is scheduled to run from October 31 to November 21. The relics will be displayed in Tawang district from October 31 to November 7, in West Kameng from November 8 to 14, and in Namsai from November 14 to 21.
During the ceremony, Khandu announced the establishment of the Arunachal Buddhist Confederation. He stated the body aims to unite the state's Mahayana and Theravada traditions. Venerable Agadhamma has been named the first President, while Thupten Kalden will serve as Secretary General.
Khandu expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving the exhibition. He also thanked Union Minister for Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and the National Museum for their cooperation in organising the event.
The Chief Minister noted that the initiative reflects the Centre's commitment to promoting the cultural heritage and tourism of Arunachal Pradesh. He urged followers to practice the teachings of wisdom and compassion in their daily lives.