New Delhi, Oct 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, concluded his visit to Elista, Republic of Kalmykia, Russia, today, as he departed for New Delhi with the sacred relics of Lord Buddha. The holy relics, revered as a National Treasure of India, were on a week-long exposition in Kalmykia from October 11 to 18, 2025.
The exposition, organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the National Museum, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), aimed to deepen spiritual and cultural ties between India and Russia, celebrating their shared Buddhist heritage.
In a solemn ceremony held at the Central Temple, popularly known as the "Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni", LG Sinha addressed a gathering of revered monks, devotees, and dignitaries. He said the return of the holy relics to India does not mark the end of their spiritual journey, as "Lord Buddha's enduring presence in Kalmykia will continue to guide seekers on the path of awakening."
"The past week has been historic," LG Sinha remarked. "It has been filled with warmth, goodwill, and spiritual energy. The exposition has brought immense joy and a sense of fulfillment to the devotees and the people of Kalmykia."
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor made a heartfelt appeal for global unity rooted in compassion, wisdom, and justice. "We must build a world full of kindness," he said. "A world rooted in wisdom, free from suffering and discrimination. An awakened and peaceful world where people care for each other and support the well-being of all." He emphasised the importance of moral integrity and fairness, asserting that the foundation of a just society lies in equality and harmony with nature.
"Our priority must be to create a world where humanity lives free of bias, and in harmony with nature. I firmly believe the teachings of Buddha offer a roadmap for achieving this vision," he added.
Reaffirming the significance of India-Russia ties, LG Sinha said that cultural and spiritual exchange remains a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. "This partnership is anchored in our shared values, peace, spiritual ethos, and compassionate living," he said. He noted that events like the exposition serve not just as religious observances but as beacons of mutual respect and global harmony.
Reflecting on the relevance of Lord Buddha's teachings in the modern era, the Lieutenant Governor said, "In today's fast-paced world, Buddha's message is a guiding light for humanity. His emphasis on compassion, non-violence, and a pure mind can help bridge divides and foster universal brotherhood."
He stressed the value of personal spiritual experience over borrowed belief. "Buddha taught us that spiritual experience must be existential, not borrowed. Life is a quest for truth, without desire. 'Be a Light unto Yourself', look within, for the light of awareness is already there," he said. The sacred relics are expected to return to India with full honours, continuing their spiritual journey and spreading the timeless message of Lord Buddha to future generations.