Exhibition of Buddhist Relics in Mehrauli
The Ministry of Culture is organizing an exhibition at Qila Rai Pithora in Mehrauli, South Delhi, featuring Lord Buddha's Piprahwa relics for the first time since their excavation over 130 years ago.
Background of Piprahwa Relics
- The relics, including gems and jewels, were discovered in 1898 by William Claxton Peppe in a stupa in Uttar Pradesh's Piprahwa village.
- They were repatriated to India after an attempted auction in Hong Kong was stopped.
Exhibition Details
- The exhibition will showcase the Piprahwa jewels alongside Buddhist relics from the Indian Museum, Kolkata, and other significant items from various museums.
- The relics include bone fragments, crystal caskets, and gold ornaments deposited by the Sakyas, Lord Buddha's kin.
- The Piprahwa collection includes 349 gem relics and gold objects, while the Indian Museum holds 221 gem relics, 6 reliquaries, and a coffer.
Heritage Repatriation Efforts
- The relics' return exemplifies India's cultural diplomacy and efforts to reclaim its heritage.
- The return was facilitated through public-private partnership with philanthropist Pirojsha Godrej.
- Items are classified as "AA" antiquities, denoting their high historical, cultural, and religious value.
- The exhibition will also highlight other antiquities returned to India via diplomatic efforts in the past decade.
Exhibition Highlights
- Artifacts will be displayed in a recreated stupa, symbolizing their return to India.
- The exhibition will cover themes like archaeology, diplomacy, spirituality, art, and philosophy.
- Over 100 objects and digital reproductions from various museums across India will be featured.
Curatorial and Security Measures
- The curatorial team comprises experts from institutions like the National Museum and the Archaeological Survey of India.
- Exhibited items will be maintained in temperature-controlled conditions with 24/7 security.
