Bodhgaya, February 4, 2025 – The Buddhagaya Centre of the Maha Bodhi Society of India successfully celebrated the 18th Anniversary of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Vihara and the Exposition of the Sacred Relics of Shakyamuni Buddha and his chief disciples, Arhant Sariputta and Mahamoggallana, from February 1 to 3, 2025.
The event commenced with a grand procession, where the sacred relics were ceremoniously carried to the Maha Bodhi Vihara where the Siddharth Gautama attained supreme enlightenment by monks and devotees from various Buddhist traditions worldwide. A special prayer offering was conducted at the main shrine of the Vihara.
The exposition officially began on the morning of February 1 with Sutta chanting by Venerable monks and nuns from Theravāda and Mahāyāna Buddhist traditions. Devotees from around the world queued from the early hours to witness the rare and revered relics. The sacred relics were displayed throughout the day, allowing thousands of attendees to pay their respects and seek blessings.
A historical photographic exhibition detailing the significance and journey of the sacred relics was also set up for visitors. The exposition continued from morning to evening for three days, drawing an overwhelming number of Buddhist followers and pilgrims.
On the final day, February 3, a magnificent relics procession was held from Kalachakra Ground to the 80-ft Buddha Statue. Hundreds of Venerable monks, nuns, and devotees from different Buddhist nations participated. The devotees and schoolchildren were seen holding the Buddhist flag, symbolizing their deep faith and reverence. Throughout the procession, the sacred chant “Buddham Saranam Gacchami, Dhammam Saranam Gacchami, Sangham Saranam Gacchami” echoed in the air, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Adding to the grandeur of the event, Venerable Lamas were seen blowing the long horns, filling the air with their deep and resonant sounds. Devotees carried beautiful flowers and the carts in the procession were elegantly decorated with vibrant flowers, enhancing the visual and spiritual beauty of the event.
The procession was further enriched by vibrant cultural performances. The dance groups from Sri Lanka and Kolkata performed beautifully in the streets, mesmerizing the crowd with their graceful movements and devotion.
The procession was further enriched by vibrant cultural performances. The dance groups from Sri Lanka and Kolkata performed beautifully in the streets, mesmerizing the crowd with their graceful movements and devotion. Samanera (novice monks) were seen meditating on a tableau and School children reenacting Buddha’s life through artistic portrayals.
As in previous years, schoolchildren from various institutions in and around Bodh Gaya actively took part in the procession. Participating schools included: Panchasheel School, Mahabodhi Vidyapeeth, Jeanamitabh Welfare Trust, Siddharth Compassion Trust, Celine La Didi School, Bodhikul School, Anand Vidyapeeth, Praina Vihara, Blue Lotus Schools, Jivan Vikash Vidyapeeth, Padma Pani School, Lotus Academy, Mummyji School, Fo Guang Shan, and Lord Buddha School.
The event also featured rural drum and puppet groups, marching bands, and horse carts, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
The Buddhagaya Centre of the Maha Bodhi Society of India expressed gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and devotees who contributed to the success of this sacred and auspicious event.
