29 Apr

Question of the Day – SACRED RELICS OF LORD BUDDHA

QOTD April 30,2026

Consider the following statements regarding sacred relics of Lord Buddha

1. They include physical remains such as bones and ashes of Buddha
2. They were originally divided into multiple parts after his Mahaparinirvana
3. All relics are currently preserved only in India

Which of the above statements are correct
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct
Sacred relics include corporeal remains like bones ashes and teeth as well as associated objects

Statement 2 is correct
After Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana relics were divided among different kingdoms and later redistributed by rulers like Ashoka

Statement 3 is incorrect
Relics are preserved in several countries including Sri Lanka Myanmar Thailand and others

Why in news–

Sacred relics of Gautama Buddha have recently been in news due to their international exhibition and diplomatic significance. India has been showcasing these relics abroad as part of cultural diplomacy, especially in Buddhist-majority countries, highlighting shared heritage and strengthening ties.

News-https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/buddha-relics-reach-bhutan-as-indias-gift-for-global-peace-prayer-festival/article70256508.ece

There are more questions from this topic that you should practice to make your concepts stronger.

Practice Questions (PQ)

PQ1.Consider the following statements

1. Stupas were built to house relics of Buddha
2. Relics are only symbolic and not physical in nature
3. Buddhist relics have cultural and religious significance

Which of the statements are correct
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer : (a) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct
Stupas were constructed specifically to enshrine relics

Statement 2 is incorrect
Relics include both physical remains and associated sacred objects

Statement 3 is correct
They hold deep spiritual and cultural importance in Buddhism

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PQ2. Consider the following statements regarding Buddhist heritage

1. Emperor Ashoka played a role in redistributing Buddha’s relics
2. Relics are important for pilgrimage tourism
3. Buddhist relics have no role in India’s cultural diplomacy

Which of the statements are correct
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

 Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct
Ashoka redistributed relics and built numerous stupas

Statement 2 is correct
Relics attract pilgrims and boost cultural tourism

Statement 3 is incorrect
India actively uses Buddhist heritage including relics in diplomacy

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PQ3.Consider the following statements

1. Relics are associated only with Buddhism and not with other religions
2. Tooth relic of Buddha is one of the most revered relics
3. Relics are often kept in monasteries and stupas

Which of the statements are correct
(a) 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 2 and 3 only

 Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect
Relics are present in many religions not just Buddhism

Statement 2 is correct
The tooth relic is highly venerated especially in Sri Lanka

Statement 3 is correct
Relics are preserved in stupas monasteries and temples

 Previous Year Question (UPSC Prelims)

Consider the following pairs

1. Sanchi — Stupa
2. Amaravati — Stupa
3. Nagarjunakonda — Temple

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct
Sanchi Stupa is a major Buddhist stupa site

Statement 2 is correct
Amaravati is known for its ancient Buddhist stupa

Statement 3 is incorrect
Nagarjunakonda is also associated with Buddhist structures not just temples