Vietnam is set to host the 2025 United Nations Day of Vesak, a significant international Buddhist event, attracting thousands of delegates from around the globe. The event, scheduled for May 6-8 (April 9-11 lunar calendar), will feature the rare display of a relic of the Buddha, flown in from India, and the heart relic of the revered Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc. This marks the fourth time Vietnam has hosted the UN Vesak Day celebration, following successful events in 2008, 2014, and 2019.
A Global Gathering of Buddhist Faith and International Diplomacy
The theme of the 2025 Vesak Day, “Harmony and Compassion for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” underscores the event’s focus on fostering peace and understanding. Over 2,700 delegates are expected to attend, including more than 1,200 international representatives. This esteemed group will comprise heads of state, leaders of international organizations, prominent religious figures, renowned scholars, and representatives from major Buddhist organizations across 85 countries and territories. The event promises to be a significant display of international cooperation and a testament to Vietnam’s commitment to global peace and understanding.
According to Most Venerable Thich Gia Quang, Vice President of the Executive Council and Head of the Information and Communication Department of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), the event will serve as a powerful platform to showcase the positive values of Buddhism and its contribution to building a peaceful and harmonious world.
“This is an incredibly meaningful international cultural and diplomatic event for the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) and our country in 2025,” said Most Venerable Thich Gia Quang. “The UN Vesak Day 2025 presents an opportunity for international friends to visit Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing the image of a peaceful, friendly, united, and harmonious Vietnamese people. It’s also a chance for the world to witness the dynamic, creative, prosperous, and flourishing Ho Chi Minh City after 50 years of national reunification. Vietnam is integrating, developing, and rising alongside the world in this new era.”
The Sacred Relics: A Journey Across Continents
A central highlight of the Vesak Day celebration will be the arrival of a relic of the Buddha from India. This significant event underscores the deep-rooted historical and spiritual connections between Vietnam and India. The transportation of the relic is being treated with the utmost respect and solemnity, befitting its sacred status.
Venerable Thich Duc Thien, Vice President and General Secretary of the VBS Executive Council, explained the meticulous arrangements for the relic’s transfer:
“The Buddha’s relic is a national treasure of India; therefore, its departure is considered a state visit. The Vietnamese government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent official diplomatic notes to the Indian government and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in late 2024, requesting permission for the VBS to bring the Buddha’s relic to Vietnam.”
The relic will arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on May 2nd, transported on a military aircraft from India, escorted by the Indian Minister of Defence. The relic will be solemnly received and subsequently taken to Thanh Tam Pagoda (Le Minh Xuan branch of the Vietnam Buddhist Academy, Ho Chi Minh City) for public veneration until May 8th. From May 8th to 12th, the relic will be moved to the Nui Ba Den National Tourist Area in Tay Ninh Province. On May 13th, it will be flown to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and then taken to Quan Su Pagoda for public viewing from May 14th to 16th. A procession will take the relic through the streets in the vicinity of Quan Su Pagoda and Hoan Kiem Lake. Finally, the relic will be transported to Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam Province on May 17th.
Honoring a Martyr: The Heart Relic of Thich Quang Duc
The 2025 Vesak Day celebration will also feature the enshrinement of the heart relic of Thich Quang Duc, a significant figure in Vietnamese Buddhist history. His self-immolation in 1963, a powerful protest against the war, shocked the world and remains a symbol of courage and sacrifice. The enshrinement of his heart relic serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Vietnamese Buddhism to its people and the nation.
The enshrinement of the heart relic will take place from May 3rd to 11th before being permanently enshrined in the stupa at Vietnam Quoc Tu Pagoda. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the deep spiritual connection between Buddhism and the Vietnamese people, highlighting the enduring relevance of Buddhist teachings in the face of adversity.
A Massive Logistical Undertaking
The organization of such a large-scale international event requires immense logistical planning and the dedication of countless individuals. The VBS has mobilized a substantial volunteer force to ensure the smooth execution of all activities.
Venerable Thich Duc Thien mentioned that approximately 1,200 volunteers are dedicated solely to catering, preparing nearly 200 vegetarian dishes. Attendees will receive complimentary water and boxed meals provided by the organizing committee at various locations, including the Vietnam Buddhist Academy, Thanh Tam Pagoda, and Lang Le Park. Delegates will be accommodated in 15 centrally located hotels in Ho Chi Minh City. The dedication of these individuals is crucial to making the 2025 Vesak Day a successful and memorable event.
The 2025 United Nations Day of Vesak in Vietnam promises to be a remarkable event, blending spiritual devotion with international diplomacy and cultural exchange.
