Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated "The Light and the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One" exhibition in New Delhi.

Key Facts

• Venue: Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi
• Organized by: Ministry of Culture
• Theme: Reunification of Piprahwa relics after 127 years
• PPP Partner: Godrej Industries Group
• More than 80 Buddhist artefacts displayed.

Prelims Points

• Piprahwa relics discovered in 1898.
• Associated with Kapilavastu, the childhood place of Lord Buddha.
• Repatriation completed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

Mains Value Addition

GS-I: Indian Culture & Buddhism

Importance

• Cultural diplomacy
• Heritage conservation
• Promotion of Buddhist tourism