Ashhar Alam/New Delhi

In a symbolic gesture reflecting the deep-rooted spiritual and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan President [insert name] inaugurated the Devnimori Buddha Relics Exposition in Colombo on Sunday. The relics, originally unearthed in the 1960s from the Devnimori stupa site in Gujarat, India, arrived in Sri Lanka via the Indian Air Force on February 4 and will be open for public viewing until February 11.

The event fulfills a promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025, highlighting the shared Buddhist heritage that forms a cornerstone of the centuries-old relationship between the two nations. The exposition comes at a time when India and Sri Lanka are strengthening ties across trade, investment, and regional cooperation, adding a cultural dimension to the growing partnership.

The Devnimori relics, which include sacred remains of the Buddha, are considered invaluable for both spiritual reverence and historical research. The exposition allows devotees, scholars, and the general public to engage with these relics firsthand, reinforcing Buddhist teachings and practices that have historically connected the Indian subcontinent with Sri Lanka.

Respectfully welcome the Sacred Relics of the Buddha to Sri Lanka today for public veneration until the 11th at Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple. I deeply appreciate PM @narendramodi and the Government of India for honouring their promise and enabling this sacred exposition. pic.twitter.com/zDeCYiY1M9

— Anura Kumara Dissanayake (@anuradisanayake) February 4, 2026

Addressing attendees at the inauguration, the Sri Lankan President noted that the relics “not only symbolize faith but also the enduring friendship and cultural dialogue between our nations.” He emphasized that such initiatives serve as bridges of mutual respect and understanding, fostering goodwill beyond diplomatic channels.

Cultural experts have pointed out that the arrival of the Devnimori relics in Colombo coincides with Sri Lanka’s 78th Independence Day celebrations, adding an additional layer of significance. “This exhibition is a reminder of the spiritual heritage that binds our peoples, transcending borders and political landscapes,” said Prof. S. N. Chowdhry,a noted historian on Buddhist heritage in South Asia.

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The relics’ journey from Gujarat to Colombo underscores India’s commitment to cultural diplomacy, showcasing the nation’s willingness to share its historical treasures to strengthen regional harmony. The public exposition is expected to attract thousands of visitors over the week, offering a rare opportunity to witness relics that have been pivotal in understanding Buddhist art and architecture in the Indian subcontinent.

As devotees and tourists flock to view the relics, the event serves as a testament to how shared faith and history continue to enrich bilateral relations, complementing the ongoing efforts in economic and strategic engagement between India and Sri Lanka.