The Sacred Relics of Shakyamuni Buddha arrived at the Golden Pagoda in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, on 14 November 2026, marking the commencement of the third and final phase of their exposition in the state. The relics were ceremonially received and enshrined at this prominent Buddhist center, with the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik (Retd.), serving as chief guest at the inauguration ceremony alongside Deputy Chief Minister Shri Chowna Mein and other dignitaries.
The exposition follows successful previous phases held at Tawang Monastery from 31 October to 7 November 2026, which attracted over 31,000 devotees, and at Bomdila's Thubchog Gatsel Ling Monastery from 8 to 13 November 2026, which saw more than 35,000 visitors. The cumulative footfall across both previous venues exceeded 66,000 devotees, demonstrating significant public participation.
Two special exhibitions were inaugurated at the Golden Pagoda's Meditation Centre: "Unearthing the Sacred Piprahwa: The Story of the Holy Buddha Relics and Their Discovery" organized by the International Buddhist Confederation, which presents the historical, archaeological and spiritual significance of the Piprahwa Relics and their return to India in 2025 after more than a century; and "Crossroads of Dhamma: Classical Legacies, Living Art, and Anthropological Perspectives" curated by the National Museum, New Delhi, showcasing the rich artistic, historical and cultural heritage of Buddhism.
The Sacred Relics will remain open for public darshan at the Golden Pagoda from 14 to 20 November 2026, after which they are scheduled to return to the National Museum, New Delhi, on 21 November 2026. The exposition is organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the National Museum, New Delhi, and the International Buddhist Confederation, reflecting the government's commitment to the protection, preservation and promotion of India's Buddhist heritage.