BANGKOK, Thailand – The government has organized a grand farewell ceremony to return the Sacred Buddha Relic to China after a 73-day enshrinement in Bangkok. Presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the event took place at Sanam Luang early this morning (Feb 15), concluding a deeply symbolic spiritual and cultural exchange between the two nations. Thousands of Buddhist devotees, monastic representatives, and government officials from Thailand and China gathered to witness the procession.
The Sacred Relic was brought to Thailand for temporary enshrinement from December 4, 2024, to February 14, 2025, in honor of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. Throughout this period, worshipers from across the country visited to pay homage, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of the relic. The farewell ceremony included floral offerings, Buddhist prayers, and an official handover before the relic was placed on a royal ceremonial chariot.
The procession left Sanam Luang at 7:00 a.m., traveling through Bangkok along a carefully planned route before reaching Don Mueang Airport’s Royal Thai Air Force Wing 6. There, an honor guard paid tribute before the relic was placed aboard a departing flight to China at 9:00 a.m.
The return of the relic concludes an important chapter in Thai-Chinese relations, demonstrating a shared commitment to religious heritage and international cooperation. The event is expected to leave a lasting impression, strengthening the cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations for years to come. (NNT)
