The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha has confirmed that sacred relics of the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, will be brought from India to Vietnam for the United Nations Vesak 2025 celebrations.

A momentous occasion for Vietnamese Buddhists

The relics, regarded as a national treasure of India, will be enshrined at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy’s second campus in Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City.

Additionally, the "indestructible heart relic" of Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc will also be enshrined at Thanh Tam Pagoda, located within the Vietnam Buddhist Academy, allowing monastics and lay followers to pay homage.

This significant achievement is a result of concerted efforts by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, with support from the Vietnamese government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in negotiating with the Indian government to bring these sacred relics to Vietnam for the occasion.

Rare blessings for Vietnamese devotees

Nhat Khang, a Buddhist follower from Ho Chi Minh City, expressed profound gratitude: "Not all Buddhists have the opportunity to undertake pilgrimages to Buddhist holy sites in India. This is a rare and immensely fortunate occasion for Vietnamese Buddhists."

The sacred relics will be part of the United Nations Vesak 2025 celebrations, hosted by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha from May 6 to 8 in Ho Chi Minh City.

The event is expected to welcome 1,000 international delegates from 80 countries and territories, making it one of the most significant Buddhist gatherings of the year.

This year’s theme, “Solidarity and Inclusiveness for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” underscores the role of Buddhist teachings in addressing global challenges and fostering unity.

Luu Dinh Long