Bomdila, Nov 12: A wave of spiritual devotion is sweeping across Arunachal Pradesh as nearly 50,000 devotees have visited the ongoing exposition of the Sacred Relics of Shakyamuni Buddha, offering prayers and paying homage to the revered relics.
The exposition, which has attracted devotees from different parts of the state, is providing an opportunity for people to connect with India’s rich Buddhist heritage and experience the spiritual significance of the sacred relics. Entering its second week, the event has witnessed an encouraging public response, reflecting the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions and religious faith of the region.
The spiritual journey of the relics across Arunachal Pradesh began on October 31, 2026, with their arrival at Gaden Namgyal Lhatse Monastery, popularly known as Tawang Monastery. The exposition continued there until November 7, drawing more than 31,000 devotees from Tawang and neighbouring areas who gathered to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Following the conclusion of the Tawang programme, the Sacred Relics were brought to Thubchog Gatsel Ling (TGL) Monastery, also known as Lower Gompa, in Bomdila on November 8. Since then, the monastery has witnessed a steady flow of devotees from Bomdila and surrounding areas, who have been visiting to pay their respects with faith and reverence.
The exposition at TGL Monastery will remain open to the public until November 13, allowing more devotees to have a glimpse of the sacred relics and participate in the religious observance.
The next destination will be the iconic Golden Pagoda in Namsai, where the Sacred Relics will be displayed for public veneration from November 14 to November 20, 2026. The upcoming exposition is expected to provide devotees from Namsai and other parts of the region an opportunity to participate in the spiritual gathering.
A celebration of India’s Buddhist heritage
The exposition is being organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the National Museum, New Delhi, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), New Delhi.
Beyond its religious significance, the initiative highlights India’s longstanding Buddhist heritage and its efforts to preserve and promote the teachings and cultural legacy of Lord Buddha. By bringing the Sacred Relics closer to devotees across different regions, the exposition also seeks to strengthen cultural and spiritual connections among Buddhist communities.
The overwhelming response in Arunachal Pradesh underscores the enduring reverence for Shakyamuni Buddha and the continuing importance of Buddhist traditions in the state’s cultural and spiritual life. With the exposition moving from Bomdila to Namsai, the opportunity for devotees to pay homage to the sacred relics will continue over the coming days.