Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday met Batu Sergeyevich Khasikov, Head of the Republic of Kalmykia, Russia and discussed various issues related to cultural, spiritual ties.
The Lieutenant Governor thanks His Excellency for facilitating the visit of relics of Buddha.
"The relics visit to this land is also testimony of the long-standing relations that India and Russia have had over the decades. India and Russia will complete 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2027 and we in India are looking forward to marking this important milestone by organizing a range of bilateral events and activities," the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also observed that an India Festival is being planned for April 2026 in Kalmykia.
He said India will do its best to ensure that the event is a grand success.
Sinha also paid obeisance to relics of Buddha brought from India and enshrined at the Central Temple, Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, also known as “the Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni” at Elista, Kalmykia, Russia.
The Lieutenant Governor is leading the delegation to bring back relics of Buddha after a week-long exposition in Elista.
During the interaction with monks, the Lieutenant Governor said the fondness which the people of this city and those from far corners of Russia have shown towards the Buddha’s relics is a rare gesture which has left an indelible mark in our hearts.
“As you know, the relics of the Buddha are considered as the Buddha himself and his coming here, amounts to his blessing the people of Kalmykia and the whole of Russia. India takes pride in the principles and teachings of the Buddha. His message of compassion, wisdom and non-violence remain more relevant than ever. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always reiterated the relevance of Buddha’s teachings in the modern world and continues to emphasise this aspect at different international forums reminding the world of Buddha's timeless wisdom,” he said.
Sinha also observed that the message of the Buddha along with his teachings should get more embedded in societies especially among the youth.