PM Narendra Modi hails return of sacred Piprahwa Relics after 127 years

New Delhi, Jul 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, celebrated the return of the sacred Piprahwa relics of Bhagwan Buddha to India after 127 years, calling it a moment of great pride and joy for the country’s cultural heritage. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister said the relics, believed to be remains of Bhagwan Buddha, reflect India’s deep spiritual connection to the Enlightened One and its enduring respect for his teachings.

“A joyous day for our cultural heritage! It would make every Indian proud that the sacred Piprahwa relics of Bhagwan Buddha have come home after 127 long years,” PM Modi wrote. “These sacred relics highlight India’s close association with Bhagwan Buddha and his noble teachings. It also illustrates our commitment to preserving and protecting different aspects of our glorious culture. #VikasBhiVirasatBhi,” he added.

The relics were originally discovered in Piprahwa, in present-day Uttar Pradesh, in 1898 during British colonial rule.

They were taken out of the country shortly after and remained abroad for over a century. Earlier this year, the relics surfaced in an international auction. India, with diplomatic and cultural efforts, intervened to stop the sale and facilitate their return. “It may be recalled that the Piprahwa relics were discovered in 1898 but were taken away from India during the colonial period. When they appeared in an international auction earlier this year, we worked to ensure they returned home. I appreciate all those who have been involved in this effort,” the Prime Minister noted. The return of the relics is being seen as a significant achievement under the government’s broader effort to bring back India’s stolen cultural artifacts and promote the message of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” — development along with heritage.