Redistribution of Buddha Relics
Bangkok, 2000

After arriving in India on pilgrimage in 1891, accompanied by Anagarika Dharmapala, the Burmese monk Chandramani settled in Kusinara, the site of the Buddha's cremation 2500 years ago, and in 1902-04 took part in excavations of the ancient Chedi during which relics of the Buddha were discovered. With the help of the Government of India he initiated restoration works in 1927. His successor Bhaddanta Gyaneshwar, the present monk in charge of the Burmese Vihara at Kusinara, is involved in further works on the site. When it was found that the Kusinaran relics had 'multiplied' (historically many remarkable events have been noted in connection with relics of the Buddha, including their spontaneous multiplication!), Bhikkhu Gyaneshwar arranged in March 2000 for a portion of the multiplied relics to be entrusted to the Thai Sangha for redistribution.

Preparations were made for the distribution to take place over 3 days from 29 April to 1 May 2000 at Wat Phra Ram Gao (Rama 9 temple Bangkok). The organising group comprised the Rama 9 monks (including Tan Suvit, well-known to many Samatha members), the Rama 9 Lay Buddhist Association, and representatives of the Royal Palace. Our own organisation was represented at the ceremonies by Paul Dennison, Chairman of the Samatha Trust, and Nai Boonman.