(MENAFN) The revered Kapilavastu Relics, believed to contain the ashes of Buddha Shakyamuni, the originator of Buddhism, were transported to Russia’s Republic of Kalmykia on Saturday via a dedicated Air Force flight.

These sacred items will be showcased in Elista, the republic’s capital, for seven days. This exhibition marks a significant advancement in deepening the cultural and spiritual relationship between India and Russia.

This presentation is part of a broader cultural outreach orchestrated by India’s Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation, the National Museum of India, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, as shared by regional officials to a news agency.

The visiting delegation was headed by Keshav Prasad Maurya, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.

Accompanying him were the 43rd Sakya Trizin Rinpoche, the spiritual leader of the Sakya sect of Buddhism, as well as academic figures and monastics.

Upon arrival, they were welcomed by Batu Khasikov, the head of Kalmykia, and Geshe Tenzin Choidak, also known as the Shajin Lama of Kalmykia, the region’s top Buddhist authority. India’s envoy to Russia, Vinay Kumar, also participated in the welcoming event.

“Elista is one of Russia’s spiritual centers, and this honor from India is a significant event,” stated Khasikov.

“It reflects the continuing dialogue between our nations based on mutual respect and shared cultural heritage.”

In addition to the relics, India is gifting detailed reproductions of 16 Buddhist artifacts — including stone carvings and sculptural reliefs dating back to the 2nd through 11th centuries — along with facsimiles of ancient Sanskrit Buddhist scriptures.

These contributions will be housed permanently at the Palmova Museum, enriching its cultural and historical collection.

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