From May 2 to 21, the sacred relics of Shakyamuni Buddha - recognized as a national treasure of India - are being brought to Vietnam for public veneration. This marks only the fourth time these relics have been taken outside of India.

Preparations for the reception and enshrinement ceremony of the Buddha relics at Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, the headquarters of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), have been completed.

Speaking to VietNamNet, Venerable Thich Minh Quang shared that the relics were transported to Vietnam aboard an Indian military aircraft and will be open for public worship between May 2 and 21.

With official permission from both the Vietnamese and Indian governments, the relics are being enshrined at four major spiritual locations: Thanh Tam Pagoda (Ho Chi Minh City) from May 2–8; Ba Den Mountain (Tay Ninh) from May 8–13; Quan Su Pagoda (Hanoi) from May 13–16; and Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam) from May 17–21.

“This is only the fourth time the relics of Shakyamuni Buddha have been taken outside India,” said Venerable Thich Minh Quang. “The previous three occasions were in 2015 (Sri Lanka, commemorating the 2,600th anniversary of the Buddha’s birth), 2022 (Mongolia), and 2024 (Thailand).”

The relics' arrival in Vietnam is part of the 2025 UN Day of Vesak celebrations. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity - a deeply spiritual and historical moment.

"The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha from the beginning regarded this as an exceptionally significant event - spiritually, culturally, and diplomatically," Venerable Quang emphasized. "We must organize it in the best and safest way possible so that all people and followers can joyfully and respectfully worship the Buddha relics."

He added that this is not only a moment to honor the Buddha, but also an occasion to reflect on his life, follow his teachings, and strive to live a compassionate, wise, and virtuous life. "We pray for national peace, family happiness, and collective well-being."

As of now, all preparations for the procession and enshrinement of the Buddha relics, as well as plans for welcoming the public at Quan Su Pagoda, are progressing smoothly.

Specialized teams and volunteer groups have been mobilized to assist and guide visitors in paying their respects. Due to space limitations at Quan Su Pagoda, managing the large crowds is expected to be challenging.

Venerable Quang called for patience and mindfulness: “We ask the public and devotees to approach this sacred moment with calmness and respect - walk quietly, speak softly, and follow organizational guidance to ensure a peaceful and dignified experience for all.”

Binh Minh