A Sacred Procession Bridges Nations

The hallowed relics of Shakyamuni Buddha, revered as a national treasure of India, embarked on a meticulously orchestrated journey from the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City to Ba Den Mountain. Escorted by senior monastics from India, Vietnam, and global Buddhist delegations, the relics were enshrined at the mountain’s Buddhist Exhibition Center, where they remained until May 13 for public homage. The Indian government’s unprecedented decision to loan the relics underscored the deep cultural ties between the two nations and the universal reverence for Buddhism’s origins.

“The enshrinement of these relics is not just a spiritual milestone for Tay Ninh but a profound act of cultural diplomacy,” said Nguyen Hong Thanh, Acting Chairman of Tay Ninh Province. Known as the “Roof of the South,” Ba Den Mountain has long been a pilgrimage site, yet this event elevated its status to a global stage, drawing devotees from Bhutan to the United States.


Miracles and Metaphors: A Spiritual Convergence

As the relics were installed, an awe-inspiring phenomenon captivated attendees: twin five-colored clouds emerged above the Tay Bo Da Son Bodhisattva statue, interpreted by many as a divine blessing. “This rare sight reminds us of the Buddha’s eternal presence,” remarked Most Venerable Thich Minh Thien of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS). The moment deepened the solemnity of the rituals, which included chanting ceremonies led by global Buddhist leaders such as Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit, President of the International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV).


Bodhi Trees: Roots of Enlightenment and Unity

In a symbolic gesture of peace, 108 Bodhi saplings—direct descendants of the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya—were planted atop the mountain. Each tree represented a participating nation, creating the first Bodhi Wisdom Garden in Vietnam. Monastics and dignitaries, including Laos’ Most Venerable Maha Veth Masaenai, shoveled soil in unison, embodying interconnectedness. “These trees are a living prayer for harmony in a fractured world,” said Thich Minh Thien, highlighting the ritual’s resonance amid global conflicts.


Candlelight Illuminates Global Aspirations

As dusk fell, over 2,000 delegates gathered at Tay Bo Da Son Square for a candlelight ceremony, their flames symbolizing wisdom and compassion. Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit moved the crowd with a poignant reflection: “Heaven is not a distant realm but a state of peace we create here, now.” His words echoed the event’s broader mission: transcending religious boundaries to advocate for collective well-being.

The ceremony’s emotional crescendo mirrored Vietnam’s broader aspirations. “Hosting Vesak three times reflects our nation’s commitment to peace,” noted Thich Thanh Nhieu, a VBS leader. Tay Ninh’s fusion of natural beauty and spiritual infrastructure—including the awe-inspiring 1,600-ton bronze Tay Bo Da Son Bodhisattva statue—left an indelible mark on attendees.


Cultural Diplomacy and Legacy

Beyond its spiritual significance, the event positioned Vietnam as a bridge between cultures. For Ms. Nguyen Lam Nhi Thuy, Deputy CEO of Sun Group (which manages Ba Den National Tourist Area), the festivities showcased Vietnam’s ability to marry tradition with modernity. “This mountain is now a pilgrimage crossroads,” she said, emphasizing Tay Ninh’s rising profile as a destination for introspection and international dialogue.

The relics’ presence also carried socio-economic promise. Bhutanese delegate Karma Wangchuk noted, “Such events foster not just spiritual growth but sustainable development, reminding leaders to prioritize compassion.”


Conclusion: A Mountain’s Eternal Flame

As Vesak 2025 concluded, Ba Den Mountain stood transformed—a testament to Buddhism’s timeless relevance and Vietnam’s role as a custodian of global heritage. The relics’ return to India after May 13 marked the end of a chapter, but the Bodhi trees and memories of thousands united in prayer endure. In the words of Phra Brahmapundit, “Here, we’ve touched heaven.” For Vietnam, the event reaffirmed its place on the world stage, not through power, but through the quiet strength of peace and shared humanity.

------
Vesak 2025, held from May 6–8, was organized by the International Council for the Day of Vesak, the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, and Tay Ninh authorities, with support from the Sun Group. The celebration featured seminars, cultural exchanges, and meditation sessions, drawing over 10,000 visitors daily.