Buddha relics reunified after 127 years; Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled the legacy of warrior queen Rani Velu Nachiyar and social reformer Savitribai Phule on their birth anniversaries
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, January 3, 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, Delhi. The exhibition marks a historic moment with the reunification of the gem relics of Lord Buddha, which were repatriated to India after 127 years.
The exposition showcases relics, gem relics and ancient reliquaries unearthed during the 1898 excavation and later excavations carried out between 1971 and 1975 at the Piprahwa site. Several artefacts preserved at the National Museum in New Delhi and the Indian Museum in Kolkata are also on display.
Sharing images from the exhibition on social media, the Prime Minister invited people to visit the exhibition. He said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to spreading the teachings of Bhagwan Buddha and strengthening the connection between the younger generation and India’s cultural heritage. He also appreciated the efforts of all those involved in the repatriation of the relics.
The exhibition has attracted historians, cultural scholars and Buddhist followers from India and abroad, highlighting India’s role in preserving and celebrating its ancient heritage.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi paid tributes to social reformer Savitribai Phule and freedom fighter Rani Velu Nachiyar on their birth anniversaries. Remembering Savitribai Phule, the Prime Minister described her as a pioneer who devoted her life to social transformation through education, equality and compassion. He noted her belief that education was the most powerful tool for social change and recalled her efforts to uplift the vulnerable.
Savitribai Phule, regarded as India’s first woman teacher, played a key role in advancing women’s education and rights. 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 homage to Rani Velu Nachiyar, PM Modi stated that she was one of India’s bravest heroines who challenged colonial oppression and asserted India’s right to self-rule. He praised her courage, leadership and commitment to good governance and cultural pride.
Rani Velu Nachiyar was the first Indian queen to wage war against the British East India Company. After losing her husband in battle, she regrouped with the support of allies such as Hyder Ali, raised an army and defeated the British in 1780, leaving behind a lasting legacy of resistance and leadership.
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