INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION OF SACRED PIPRAHWA RELICS

News: The Prime Minister inaugurated the Grand International Exposition titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, marking the reunification of the Piprahwa gem relics of Gautama Buddha after 127 years.

Piprahwa Relics

Discovery

• Year: 1898
• Discovered by: William Claxton Peppé (British civil engineer)

About

• The Piprahwa Relics are a collection of sacred artifacts discovered in 1898 at the Piprahwa Stupa in Uttar Pradesh, India
• Believed to be associated with the mortal remains of Lord Buddha
• It is the site believed to be associated with ancient Kapilavastu, the homeland of Gautama Buddha
• Piprahwa Relics are classified as ‘AA’ antiquities under Indian law, prohibiting their removal or sale

Contemporary Relevance of Buddha’s Teachings

• Principles like Right Speech, Right Conduct, Right Livelihood promote ethical leadership and transparent administration
• Sangha: Provides ethical basis for social inclusion, gender justice
• Middle Path (Madhyam Marg): Encourages sustainable lifestyles, responsible consumption, harmony with nature
• Emphasis on: Simplicity, non-violence, reverence for all life