Colombo/New Delhi, Feb 11: A solemn Pirith chanting and flower offering ceremony was held at the revered Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo to mark the ceremonial return of the Holy Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha to India, underscoring the deep spiritual and civilisational ties between India and Sri Lanka.
The sacred ceremony, reflecting shared values of peace, compassion and harmony, was attended by Sri Lanka’s Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious & Cultural Affairs, Dr Hiniduma Sunil Senevi; Deputy Minister Gamagedara Dissanayake; Governor of Madhya Pradesh Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel; High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha; the Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya Temple; and other distinguished dignitaries from both nations.
Following the religious observances, the Holy Devnimori Relics were ceremonially escorted from Gangaramaya Temple to Bandaranaike International Airport in the presence of senior officials and revered monks, symbolising the enduring bonds of faith and friendship between the two countries.
The relics subsequently arrived in New Delhi, marking the successful completion of a profoundly sacred and historically significant journey. They were received with due reverence, reflecting the immense spiritual and civilisational legacy they embody.
Describing the occasion as deeply enriching, Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who was part of the official Indian delegation led by Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel, stated that the sacred journey reaffirmed the timeless message of Lord Buddha — peace, compassion and harmony — and strengthened the shared resolve to carry forward this eternal teaching.
Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Mein thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the opportunity to be part of the official delegation for the exposition and return of the Holy Devnimori Relics from Sri Lanka to India. He termed the experience an enriching spiritual journey, a cultural awakening, and a moment of heritage appreciation.
He also extended his appreciation to the Government of Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka, revered monks, and members of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) for their support and cooperation in ensuring the smooth and successful completion of the exposition and return of the sacred relics.
The ceremonial visit and return of the Holy Devnimori Relics highlight the longstanding civilisational linkages between India and Sri Lanka and reaffirm the shared commitment of both nations to preserving and promoting Buddhist heritage and cultural cooperation across borders.