Leh

Sacred relics of Lord Buddha arrived in Ladakh on Wednesday ahead of a public exposition scheduled from May 1 to May 15.

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, along with senior officials and security personnel, received the relics at the Air Force Airport. The relics were flown in on a dedicated aircraft under tight security arrangements.

Calling it a significant moment, Saxena said the holy relics received a grand welcome and were being moved to secure custody before the public display begins. The exposition will open on May 1, coinciding with Buddha Purnima.

The opening ceremony is expected to be attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

After landing, the relics were transported on a special flatbed truck to Jivatsal, where they have been placed for the upcoming display. Officials said this is the first time these relics have been moved from their permanent location for an exhibition within India.

The programme is being seen as both a major religious occasion and an effort to showcase India’s Buddhist heritage. Ladakh, known for its monasteries and spiritual traditions, was chosen as the main venue.

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According to the schedule, the exposition will move to Zanskar on May 11 and 12, followed by a concluding ceremony in Leh on May 14. The relics will return on May 15.