Holy Relics of Buddha's chief disciples return to India after 10-day exposition in Mongolia
On 10 June 2026, the Holy Relics of Arhant Sariputra and Arhant Maudgalyayana returned to India after a 10-day exposition at the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery, Ulaanbaatar, visited by about one lakh devotees.
Summary
The Holy Relics of Lord Buddha's two chief disciples, Arhant Sariputra and Arhant Maudgalyayana, returned to India on 10 June 2026 after a 10-day exposition at the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Held from 31 May to 9 June 2026 at the monastery's request, the exposition opened on Mongolian Buddha Purnima (31 May) and drew around one lakh devotees. The National Museum of India organised it with the Government of Madhya Pradesh, the Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), with full support from the Government of Mongolia.
Key facts
- Return
- 10 June 2026
- Relics
- Arhant Sariputra and Arhant Maudgalyayana
- Venue
- Gandan Tegchenling Monastery, Ulaanbaatar
- Exposition
- 31 May–9 June 2026; opened on Mongolian Buddha Purnima
- Devotees
- About one lakh
- Organisers
- National Museum, Govt of Madhya Pradesh, Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka, IBC
Practice MCQs 2 questions
The Holy Relics of Arhant Sariputra and Arhant Maudgalyayana were exposed for veneration at which monastery in Mongolia (May–June 2026)?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — Gandan Tegchenling Monastery
The 10-day exposition was held at the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar.
Which state government partnered the National Museum of India in organising the exposition of the relics in Mongolia in 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Madhya Pradesh
The National Museum organised it with the Government of Madhya Pradesh, the Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka and the IBC.