Holy relics of Arhat Sariputra and Arhat Mahamoggallana enshrined in Mongolia on Buddha Purnima 2026

Holy Relics of Arhat Sariputra and Arhat Mahamoggallana were ceremonially enshrined at the Gandantegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on the occasion of Buddha Purnima 2026. Arhat Sariputra and Arhat Mahamoggallana are the two chief disciples of Lord Buddha.

The Union Ministry of Culture stated that the relics have been brought from India for a ten-day exposition until the 10th of June. The exposition was inaugurated in the presence of Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and the Ambassador of India to Mongolia, Atul Malhari Gotsurve.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the exposition during Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh’s visit to India in October last year. The Ministry stated that the initiative reflects the deep spiritual and civilisational bonds shared by India and Mongolia, rooted in the teachings of Lord Buddha.

Addressing the gathering, the Assam Governor described the occasion as a historic moment and stated that the sacred relics embody the living light of enlightenment, carrying a universal message of peace, compassion, and harmony. Mr. Acharya noted that both relics, preserved for centuries in the sacred stupas of Sanchi, are among India’s most treasured civilisational inheritances. He emphasised that their exposition in Mongolia is a profound gesture of trust, reverence, and friendship between the two nations.

The Governor recalled Prime Minister Modi’s observation that India and Mongolia are spiritual neighbours, connected through Buddhism for centuries. He highlighted that the exposition comes at a significant time, as the two countries celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of Strategic Partnership.

The Indian Ambassador to Mongolia highlighted the enduring relevance of Lord Buddha’s teachings on peace, harmony, social justice, and rational thought. The Ambassador noted that India and Mongolia are Strategic Partners and spiritual siblings.

A special exhibition titled ‘Vessels of Light: Iconography, Relics and the Path of Dhamma – Shakyamuni Buddha’s Journey through Museum Collections of India’ was also inaugurated on the premises of the Gandantegchenling Monastery.

Curated by the National Museum, New Delhi, the exhibition presents a rich visual narrative of the life, teachings, and artistic representations of Lord Buddha through select treasures from India’s museum collections.