India to Exhibit Buddha’s Sacred Relics in Russia’s Kalmykia from October 11–18

Elista, Kalmykia - In a remarkable gesture of spiritual and cultural harmony, India is set to bring the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha to the Republic of Kalmykia, Russia, for a special public exposition from October 11 to 18, 2025. The exhibition will be hosted in Elista, the capital of Kalmykia, and marks a historic moment for the region, which proudly starts as the only Buddhist-majority republic in Europe. 

Strengthening Spiritual and Cultural Bonds

This is a special exhibition which is being held with the guidance of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). The sacred relics - revered symbols of peace and enlightenment - are being transported from India’s National Museum with the utmost care and traditional Buddhist rituals.

The Indian delegation will be led by Shri Keshav Prasad Maurya, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, accompanied by senior monks and cultural representatives. Upon arrival in Kalmykia, the relics will be received with great reverence by the Shajin Lama of Kalmykia, local Buddhist leaders, and government officials.

A Landmark Event in Elista

The Buddhist Relics in Russia will be displayed at the magnificent Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, also known as the Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha, which serves as the spiritual heart of Kalmykia. The monastery will host special prayers, meditation sessions, and discourses led by Buddhist monks and scholars from both India and Russia throughout the week-long event.

This marks the first-ever exhibition of Buddha’s relics in Kalmykia, symbolizing a profound connection between India, the birthplace of Buddhism, and Russia’s Buddhist community. It also reinforces the message of universal brotherhood, compassion, and peace that Buddha’s teachings represent.

Symbol of Friendship Between India and Russia

This exhibition not only marks Buddhism in Russia but also the emerging cultural cooperation between India and Russia. It symbolizes the common principles of peace, tolerance, and respect in Indo-Russian relations.

The arrival of the sacred relics in Kalmykia is expected to draw devotees, scholars, and visitors from across Russia and neighboring regions, transforming Elista into a vibrant hub of spirituality and learning during the week of the exhibition.

Invitation to the University Community

Kalmyk State University encourages everyone, students, faculty members, and residents to visit the exhibition during the period between October 11-18. This rare opportunity to witness the sacred relics of Lord Buddha is not only a spiritual experience but also an inspiring moment of cultural learning and global connection.

Let this historic occasion strengthen our collective pursuit of wisdom, peace, and enlightenment - the timeless teachings of the Buddha that continue to guide humanity today.