The 20th United Nations Day of Vesak 2025, held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, was a momentous occasion that brought together thousands of Buddhist leaders, scholars, and devotees from across the world. The event, themed "Buddhist Insights for a Peaceful World and Sustainable Development," emphasized the role of Buddhist philosophy in fostering global harmony and sustainable progress.

One of the most significant aspects of the celebration was the enthronement and veneration of the Sacred Buddha Relics from Sarnath, which were initially transported from Sarnath to New Delhi and venerated in the National Museum of India, then flown to Vietnam by a special Indian Air Force aircraft C-130J-30, which landed at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh at 7:45 a.m. Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju, State Minister of Tourism and Culture in Andhra Pradesh, Shri Kandula Durgesh, revered monks and senior officials from India accompanied the sacred relics. This sacred mission was facilitated by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) under the aegis of Ministry of Culture and Mahabodhi Society of India, reflecting the deep spiritual ties between India and Vietnam. IBC worked closely with the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, and the Embassy of India in Vietnam to ensure the successful execution of this initiative.

Establishment of the Vietnam Chapter of the International Buddhist Confederation

In pursuance of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on May 29, 2022, between the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening mutual cooperation and advancing the shared ideals of compassion, wisdom, and peace, as enshrined in the teachings of the Buddha. On May 2, 2025, the IBC and the VBS officially launched the Vietnam Chapter of the International Buddhist Confederation, marking a significant step toward enhancing Buddhist collaboration between India and Vietnam.

Enshrinement and Veneration of the Sacred Buddha Relics

The exposition of sacred Buddha relics highlighted a reminder of the rich historical connections between India and Vietnam. The Sacred Relics of the Buddha were ceremoniously enshrined, venerated, and worshiped at several important sites in Vietnam. Among these, the Thanh Tâm Monastery in Vietnam Buddhist University played a central role in hosting the relics from May 2 to May 8, 2025, coinciding with the 20th United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations. It was here that the sacred sapling of the Bodhi tree was planted in the august presence of Indian and Vietnamese dignitaries.

The opening ceremony on May 6, 2025, was a grand affair, attended by dignitaries/state leaders across the world, Buddhist monks, and international delegates from various countries. On May 6, 2025, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs of India, delivered a speech on the teachings of the Buddha and the Dhamma and also communicated best wishes for the occasion from Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His address emphasized the relevance of Buddhist principles in today’s world, particularly in promoting peace, compassion, and sustainable development. The veneration of the Sacred Buddha Relics attracted thousands of devotees, showcasing the universal teachings of the Buddha, inspiring individuals and nations to work towards a peaceful and sustainable future.

In the coming days, the sacred relics will be displayed to the public in Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21, 2025.

Visual Contribution to UNDV 2025

The United Nations Day of Vesak 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City was not only a celebration of Buddhist heritage but also a celebration of the enduring friendship between India and Vietnam. On May 6, 2025, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs of India, along with the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam General Lúóng Cúöng, visited the Holy Relic Exposition at the Thanh Tâm Monastery and the special exhibition on Vietnamese Buddhist culture. The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) hosted three major exhibitions:

1. ‘Glorious Ajanta’ Exhibition by Prasad Pawar Foundation – This exhibition featured a stunning and acclaimed digital restoration of the Ajanta Cave murals, illuminating the ancient Jataka Kathas like never before. These legendary caves, cradled in the heart of India, are more than stone and pigment — they are living testaments to the Buddha’s timeless message of unity, compassion, and hope.

2. Sculptures Depicting Key Events of Buddha’s Life – Curated by the IBC and facilitated by the National Museum of India, this exhibition displayed sculptures illustrating significant moments from the life of Lord Buddha, including His birth, enlightenment, first sermon, and Mahaparinirvana.

3. Comparative Buddhist Art History of India and Vietnam – This exhibition explored the artistic and cultural exchanges between India and Vietnam, tracing the evolution of Buddhist art in both countries. It highlighted the shared heritage and mutual influences that have shaped Buddhist artistic traditions across centuries.

Shri Kiren Rijiju’s visit to the exhibitions on May 6, 2025, signified the deep-rooted spiritual and cultural ties between India and Vietnam. His presence at the event reaffirmed India’s commitment to promoting Buddhist values and fostering international cooperation through cultural diplomacy. The exhibitions attracted scholars, monks, diplomats, and devotees, offering them a unique opportunity to appreciate the rich artistic legacy of Buddha Dhamma. These initiatives reflect a collective effort to preserve Buddhist heritage while applying its teachings to contemporary global issues. As the Buddha Dhamma emphasizes interconnectedness and compassion, these initiatives illuminate the path forward for global peace and sustainable development, inspiring nations to embrace ethical leadership, cultural inclusivity, and spiritual wisdom.