News: India organised the first-ever public exposition of the Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha outside India at the Gangaramaya Temple, Colombo (Sri Lanka).
About Devnimori Relics
The Devnimori Relics originate from the Devnimori archaeological site near Shamlaji in the Aravalli district of Gujarat. The inscription language is Brahmi script & Sanskrit.
The site was first scientifically explored in 1957 by archaeologist Prof. S. N. Chowdhry.
Archaeological findings indicate the spread and flourishing of Buddhism in western India during the early centuries of the Common Era.
The relics symbolise Lord Buddha’s teachings of peace, compassion, and harmony
Major Archaeological Findings at Devnimori
- Relic Casket
- Discovered inside the Devnimori Stupa at a height of about 24 feet from the base.
- Made of green schist stone.
- Bears inscriptions in Brahmi script and Sanskrit reading “Dashabala Sharira Nilaya”, meaning abode of the Buddha’s bodily relics.
- Copper Container
- A copper box with a flat base and slip-on lid fitted onto a rim ledge.
- Contained organic material with holy ashes, silk cloth fragments, beads, and black clay covering.
- Amphora-like Bottle
- A gold-coated silver-copper miniature bottle.
- Features a cylindrical body, narrow neck, and screw-type lid, resembling ancient amphora vessels.
Preservation: The relics are preserved in a desiccator sealed within an air-tight glass enclosure to prevent moisture damage and deterioration.
