By Srinivas Iyer
The Holy Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha, which were brought to Sri Lanka on February 4, 2026, departed for India on February 11 following the successful conclusion of a historic exposition at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. The week-long exposition witnessed an overwhelming response, with over a million devotees paying their respects, marking a significant spiritual and cultural moment for both nations.
The sacred relics were escorted back to India by Shri Mangubhai C. Patel, Governor of Madhya Pradesh, and Shri Chowna Mein, Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. A ceremonial farewell was held at Bandaranaike International Airport in the presence of Sri Lanka’s Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Deputy Minister Gamagedara Dissanayake, and India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha.
During their visit, the Indian delegation held meetings with senior Sri Lankan leaders, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and other provincial dignitaries, and also interacted with members of the Indian-origin community in Sri Lanka, reinforcing people-to-people ties.
The exposition was inaugurated on February 4 by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, alongside Governor of Gujarat Acharya Devvrat and Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, in the presence of Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero. Several senior Sri Lankan leaders, including the Prime Minister, cabinet ministers, parliamentarians and former presidents, paid homage during the exposition.
Notably, this marked the first public veneration of the Devnimori Relics outside India. The event, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 2025 Sri Lanka visit, underscored the enduring Buddhist heritage and deep spiritual bonds between India and Sri Lanka.
