The Global Buddhist Summit (GBS) offered delegates an experience that went far beyond academic dialogue, immersing them in the living spirit of India’s heritage, spirituality, and national identity on Republic Day. According to a release issued by PIB Delhi on 27 January 2026, foreign monks and international delegates experienced two deeply symbolic moments — reverence before the Holy Relics of the Buddha and witnessing the Republic Day Parade — together reflecting India’s unique synthesis of spiritual wisdom and sovereign strength.
Reverence at the Holy Relics Exhibition
A major highlight of the summit was the visit of around 250 foreign monks and GBS delegates to the Qila Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, where they paid homage to the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha. The exposition had earlier been inaugurated by the Prime Minister on 3 January 2026.
Delegates spent over two hours deeply engaged with the exhibition, learning about:
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The historical significance of the Piprawah relics
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How the reliquaries were taken away in 1898
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India’s sustained efforts to repatriate the sacred relics and reunite them with other parts of the same collection
Many delegates expressed heartfelt appreciation for India’s commitment to preserving its ancient heritage while ensuring that sacred artefacts are respectfully restored to their rightful place.
A Deeply Personal Spiritual Experience
The visit became an emotional and spiritual moment for many monks and nuns. Several delegates were seen chanting prayers before the relics, while others described the experience as rare and transformative.
“We are extremely fortunate to be blessed by the relics of the Shakyamuni and witness such a rich collection,” said a senior Sangha member.
“This was the spiritual dimension of the summit we never expected, but it came as a profound gift,” another delegate shared.
The organisers had intentionally kept this visit a surprise, seeking to complement the academic and philosophical deliberations of the summit with a direct spiritual encounter.
Monks Attend Republic Day Parade
In another symbolic moment, around 60 monks from different countries attended the Republic Day Parade on 26 January 2026. Their presence amidst the display of India’s military strength, discipline, and defence capabilities created a powerful contrast and a deeply reflective atmosphere.
Observers noted that while India showcased its strategic strength and sovereignty, the presence of monks and nuns symbolised peace, compassion, and moral conscience — reinforcing the idea that enduring global solutions lie in the path of Dhamma, as often emphasized by the Prime Minister.
A Memorable Moment with the Prime Minister
One touching incident occurred after the parade when three nuns from Vietnam requested permission to remain seated as the Prime Minister walked past their enclosure. With support from the International Buddhist Confederation staff, they were able to stay back and greet him briefly.
Later, the nuns expressed immense joy at the close interaction and took photographs to preserve the memory.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” one nun remarked.
India’s Dual Identity on Global Display
Together, the visits to the sacred relics and the Republic Day celebrations beautifully captured the dual essence of India:
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A civilisation deeply rooted in spiritual wisdom and cultural continuity
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A modern nation confidently asserting its democratic strength, unity, and sovereignty
The experience left a lasting impression on international delegates, reinforcing India’s image as both the land of Buddha and a resilient democratic power.
Conclusion
The journey from sacred relics to the Republic Day parade transformed the Global Buddhist Summit into more than a diplomatic or intellectual gathering — it became a living experience of India itself. By blending spirituality with national pride, India conveyed a powerful message to the world: true leadership lies in balancing compassion with conviction, heritage with progress, and peace with strength.
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Source: PIB
