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India Unveils Buddha Gems After Century Abroad

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened a New Delhi exhibition formally unveiling the Piprahwa gems for the first time since their colonial-era removal.
William Claxton Peppe's descendants later put parts of the family-held collection up for sale in May 2025 at Sotheby's in Hong Kong.
Archaeological evidence shows the collection includes more than 300 precious stones and ornaments, with the casket inscription and bone fragments dating to around 200 BC at the Piprahwa stupa site.
The auction was halted after the Ministry of Culture legally blocked the sale, with Godrej Industries Group and the Indian government acquiring the gems and the Peppe family welcoming public display.
The Ministry of Culture said, `This historic event marks the reunification of the Piprahwa gem relics of Lord Buddha, repatriated after 127 years`, highlighting its significance for a faith with more than 500 million adherents.

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The collection of more than 300 precious stones and jewels is currently on display in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks of a "very special day".

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India Exposes Sacred Jewels Linked to Buddha for the First Time Since Their Discovery in 1898

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NDTV

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PM Modi Inaugurates Grand Exhibition Of Buddha Relics In Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics, titled "The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One," at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in New Delhi on Saturday.

5 days ago·New Delhi, India

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