Thimphu, Nov 25 (IAhns) – Bhutan formally closed the display of sacred Buddha relics that had been kept at the Grand Kuenray Hall in its capital. The farewell, held early Tuesday morning, featured the customary prayers and rituals that marked the end of the relics’ stay.
The ceremony drew a mix of high‑ranking officials and monastic leaders, including Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, the Laytshog Lopen of the Central Monastic Body, as well as Bhutan’s Home and Health Ministers. Venerable monks from both countries attended as well.
When speaking on X, Rijiju noted, “Holy Buddha Relics enshrined at the Grand Kuenray Hall, Thimphu since 8 Nov 2025 were bid farewell today morning with traditional prayers and ceremony attended by His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Prime Minister of Bhutan, Laytshog Lopen of Central Monastic Body, Home Minister of Bhutan, Health Minister of Bhutan and Venerable monks from India and Bhutan.”
The relics had been housed in the Grand Kuenray Hall at Tashichhodzong before being displayed as a special gesture from the Indian people in celebration of the Fourth King’s 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by Bhutan’s Royal Government.
Rijiju arrived in Bhutan on Monday to lead the delegation that arranged the return of the sacred items to India after their public exhibition in the neighboring country.
During his visit, the Union Minister met with King Wangchuck and conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm greetings, expressing appreciation for the Bhutanese reverence shown toward the relics. He added in a post on X, “His Majesty the King conveyed thankfulness for the exposition of Holy Buddha Relics in Thimphu and the opportune visit of the Prime Minister of India to Bhutan earlier this month.”
In a later discussion with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Rijiju highlighted the resilience of India‑Bhutan friendship and the shared values that both nations continue to uphold. He further posted on X, “Great pleasure meeting Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan. The exchange reflected the depth of India–Bhutan friendship & the values we continue to uphold together. Deeply touched by Bhutan’s sincere reverence for the Holy Buddha Relics, which continue to inspire harmony & connection between our peoples.”
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