Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha Returned to India After Auction Block Attempt

Last Updated Jul - 31 - 2025, 03:48 PM | Source : Fela News

India secures the return of sacred Piprahwa relics, nearly auctioned in Hong Kong. The landmark repatriation, enabled by a government–Godrej partnership, reflec

On July 30, 2025, a portion of the sacred Buddhist relics originally excavated in 1898 from northern India was returned to the country, after nearly being auctioned in Hong Kong. The relics, believed to be associated with the mortal remains of Lord Buddha, were retrieved through a joint effort between the Indian government and the Godrej Industries Group. The Ministry of Culture hailed the repatriation as a landmark achievement in cultural diplomacy, showcasing how collaboration between public institutions and private entities can safeguard heritage.

The Piprahwa relics, found by British engineer William Claxton Peppé in Piprahwa (now in Uttar Pradesh), date back to the 3rd century BCE and hold immense spiritual significance for Buddhists worldwide. They include bone fragments, crystal and soapstone caskets, a sandstone coffer, and offerings such as gold ornaments and gemstones. An inscription in Brahmi script identifies the remains as those of the Buddha, enshrined by the Sakya clan.

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat received the relics at Delhi airport, where they arrived in a secured box. He described their return as a matter of national pride and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for making the repatriation possible.

Originally slated for auction by Sotheby’s in Hong Kong on May 7, the relics were saved after the Ministry of Culture intervened with a legal notice demanding immediate cessation of the sale. The Ministry successfully postponed the auction and later secured the relics’ return.

A formal ceremony will soon unveil the relics for public viewing. Godrej Industries Group Vice-Chairperson Pirojsha Godrej said the initiative reflects a commitment to preserving cultural heritage and symbolized peace and shared humanity. The Ministry emphasized that this repatriation aligns with PM Modi’s broader vision to reclaim India’s cultural and spiritual treasures from around the world.

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Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha Returned to India After Auction Block Attempt

Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha Returned to India After Auction Block Attempt

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