India and Mongolia are set to deepen their long-standing spiritual relationship through a major exposition of the sacred relics of Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Mahamoggallana, the two chief disciples of Gautama Buddha. The special exhibition will take place at the Ganden Monastery in Ulaanbaatar from June 1 to June 10, organized jointly by India’s Ministry of Culture, the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), and the National Museum in New Delhi.
The event follows earlier successful collaborations between the two nations centered on Buddhist heritage. In 2022, sacred Kapilavastu relics of the Buddha were displayed in Mongolia during Buddha Purnima celebrations, marking their first visit to the country in nearly three decades. The relics were showcased alongside Mongolia’s revered Buddha Tooth Relic at the Gandantegchinlen Monastery in the capital city.
The upcoming exposition was officially announced during Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa’s state visit to India in October 2025. During the visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the deep spiritual connection between India and Mongolia, emphasizing that Buddhism has linked the two nations for centuries. Modi described the relationship as more than diplomatic, calling both countries “spiritual siblings” connected by shared religious and cultural traditions.
At the time, Modi also announced India’s plan to send a Sanskrit teacher to Mongolia’s Gandan Monastery to support the study of Buddhist scriptures and preserve the ancient exchange of knowledge between the two countries.
Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Mahamoggallana are regarded among Buddhism’s most respected disciples, celebrated for their wisdom, spiritual discipline, and role in preserving Buddha’s teachings. Born in neighboring villages in the ancient Magadha region near present-day Nalanda, the two figures remain central to Buddhist traditions across Asia.
According to the International Buddhist Confederation, the relics symbolize wisdom, realization, and the living continuation of Buddha’s teachings. In Buddhist philosophy, the Sangha, or community of enlightened followers, is considered one of the Three Jewels alongside the Buddha and the Dhamma. The relics therefore hold deep religious significance for Buddhist communities worldwide.
The IBC stated that the exposition will carry particular meaning for Mongolia, where Buddhism has historically shaped spiritual life, scholarship, monastic traditions, and meditation practices. Organizers believe the event will strengthen cultural understanding while reinforcing centuries-old ties between the two nations.
India and Mongolia have maintained close cultural relations through Buddhism for generations, with both countries continuing to collaborate on preserving and promoting their shared spiritual heritage on the global stage.
