The Piprahwa relics, discovered in 1898 by British civil engineer William Claxton Peppé in Piprahwa, Uttar Pradesh, are associated with the corporeal remains of Gotama Buddha.

After 127 years, the Piprahwa relics — precious gemstones and bone fragments believed to belong to Gotama Buddha — have returned to India on 30 July 2025.

Originally discovered in 1898 near the India-Nepal border, these sacred items were taken abroad during colonial times.  When they resurfaced in a Hong Kong auction this year, the Indian government acted swiftly—issuing legal notices, engaging diplomats, and halting the sale.  With the help of the Godrej Group, the relics were reverently returned to India.

Now enshrined at the National Museum in Delhi, they were received with chants, offerings, and monastic blessings.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister of Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated: “The return of the Piprahwa Gems is a matter of great pride for every Indian. This is one of the most significant instances of repatriation of our lost heritage.”

Union Minister of Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Venerable Sangha members pay homage to the relics.

This return is not just cultural—it’s deeply spiritual.  It reminds us of India’s enduring connection to the Buddha and His teachings of peace, compassion and wisdom.  May it inspire faith, peace, and wholesome remembrance in all who pay homage.