Russia’s ‘Golden Abode’ Hosts 90,000+ for Buddha Relic Event

A remarkable Buddhist relic exposition in Elista, Russia, drew an astonishing crowd of over 90,000 devotees. The sacred relics of Lord Buddha were on public display for a week at the ‘Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha’ monastery, before being returned to India. Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, oversaw the relics’ journey back home following the highly successful event, which concluded on October 18th. This landmark exhibition in Europe’s sole Buddhist-majority region, Kalmykia, served as a powerful testament to shared spiritual heritage and strengthened India-Russia cultural bonds. The relics, officially recognized as a National Treasure of India, were accompanied by a prominent Indian delegation, including senior monks and officials, who conducted blessings for the local populace. The event also paid tribute to the influential 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, whose efforts significantly revived Buddhist traditions in Kalmykia and other Russian territories like Buryatia and Tuva.