The repatriation of the sacred Piprahwa Relics was described as an act of shared stewardship rather than ownership during a panel discussion on “Buddhist Philosophy” held at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex. The discussion was organised on the occasion of the inauguration of the Grand International Exhibition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics by Narendra Modi, reaffirming India’s civilisational responsibility as the Motherland of Dhamma.
Scholarly Dialogue on Buddhist Philosophy
The panel discussion was chaired by Siddharth Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Nava Nalanda Mahavihara. The session brought together eminent scholars from leading academic institutions across the country, reflecting the plural and dialogic spirit of Buddhist thought.
Distinguished panelists included:
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Nalin Kumar Shastri, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow
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Bala Ganpathi, University of Delhi
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Anand Singh, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow
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Rajnish Mishra, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
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Ujjwal Kumar, University of Calcutta
Buddha’s Message: Dialogue Over Coercion
In his presidential address, Prof. Siddharth Singh observed that the teachings of the Buddha spread across the world not through force or coercion, but through dialogue, ethical conduct, and personal example. He emphasised that Buddhism, like other Dharma-based traditions, seeks the purification of the human mind and the alleviation of suffering rather than proselytisation.
He further highlighted that the Buddha’s relics continue to sustain living traditions by connecting contemporary practitioners with the historical Buddha, underscoring that the repatriation of the Piprahwa relics reflects collective cultural responsibility.
Buddhist Philosophy and Contemporary Relevance
Prof. Nalin Kumar Shastri described the repatriation as a reflection of the renewed relevance of Buddhist philosophy in modern times. He noted that Buddhist thought offers guidance on ethical governance, environmental sustainability, and mental well-being. Emphasising concepts such as Anattā, the Brahmavihāras, and Pratītyasamutpāda, he highlighted their importance for social harmony, ecological responsibility, and global peace.
Relics as Living Symbols of the Dhamma
Prof. Anand Singh explained that relics of the Buddha and his disciples function as symbolic embodiments of the Dhamma, integrating both the living presence of the Buddha and his teachings. He observed that relic veneration historically expanded Buddhist sacred geography through stūpas and caityas, while also accommodating local cultural elements without diluting core philosophical values.
India’s Civilisational Role as the Motherland of Dhamma
Prof. Bala Ganpathi stressed that Buddhism’s global acceptance lies in its philosophical depth and ethical universality. Describing the Piprahwa relics as living reminders of the Buddha’s message, he reaffirmed India’s enduring role as the Motherland of Dhamma and noted that Buddhist philosophy offers a humane framework for peace and coexistence in an increasingly fragmented world.
Philosophical Continuities in Indian Thought
Prof. Rajnish Mishra highlighted the deep intellectual continuities between Buddhist philosophy and classical Indian traditions. He pointed to the shared Śramaṇic and Brāhmaṇical milieu and noted that centres such as Varanasi historically nurtured debate, dialogue, and philosophical refinement.
Doctrinal Insights and Sacred Geography
Prof. Ujjwal Kumar drew attention to the Buddha’s deliberate choice of Sarnath for delivering his first sermon. He explained key doctrinal distinctions between stūpa and cetiya, noting that while a stūpa contains relics, a cetiya serves as a sacred reminder of the Buddha, with both holding central importance in Buddhist devotional and ethical life.
Collective Recognition of Cultural Stewardship
The panel collectively acknowledged the efforts of the Hon’ble Prime Minister and the Hon’ble Minister of Culture in facilitating the repatriation of the Piprahwa relics. The initiative was described as a gesture of cultural stewardship, global goodwill, and India’s enduring commitment to peace and shared human values.
Conclusion
The panel discussion on Buddhist philosophy reaffirmed that the repatriation of the Piprahwa relics transcends questions of ownership, symbolising shared stewardship of humanity’s spiritual heritage. By reviving dialogue around the Buddha’s teachings of compassion, ethics, and coexistence, the initiative reinforces India’s civilisational role in promoting peace and global harmony.
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Source: PIB
