In a bid to strengthen the spiritual ties between India and Mongolia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed plans to send the sacred remains of Lord Buddha’s primary followers, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, to Mongolia next year. Emphasizing the enduring Buddhist connection between the two nations, PM Modi referred to them as “spiritual siblings” during discussions with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa.
In addition to dispatching the relics, India will deploy a Sanskrit instructor to Mongolia’s Gandan Monastery to facilitate the study of Buddhist scriptures and launch a project to digitize a million ancient manuscripts. Furthermore, collaborations between Nalanda University and the monastery will be enhanced to bolster the historical significance of Mongolian Buddhism.
Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, revered as the shining jewels of Buddha, are now set to embark on a journey to Mongolia, spanning thousands of miles. These two prominent disciples of Buddha, whose relics are annually displayed to the public at Sanchi, attract multitudes of Buddhist devotees worldwide to the World Heritage site for a glimpse.
Sariputra (also known as Sariputta in Pali) and Maudgalyayana (Mogallana in Pali) held pivotal roles as the Buddha’s closest and most significant disciples. Often depicted in Buddhist artwork flanking the Buddha, with Sariputra on his right and Maudgalyayana on his left, symbolizing their intimate bond and spiritual importance.
Sariputra, renowned for his wisdom and understanding, played a crucial role in shaping early Buddhist teachings and monastic regulations. Referred to as the “Dharma General” for his leadership within the monastic community (sangha), he made significant contributions to the Vinaya (monastic code) and Abhidharma (philosophical texts).
Maudgalyayana, known for his mastery of supernatural abilities, was believed to possess powers like shape-shifting, flying, and clairvoyance, which he utilized for the benefit of others. Stories abound of his exploits, such as flying to a distant mountain to acquire medicine for Sariputra’s illness and attempting to reveal hidden food during a famine. Like Sariputra, he contributed to the Abhidharma texts and displayed unwavering dedication to the Buddha’s teachings.
The enduring friendship between the two monks, which originated in their childhood, led them to join the sangha after being inspired by the verse “Of those things that arise from a cause, the Tathagata has told the cause, and also what their cessation is,” as reported by Tricycle. The Buddha appointed them as chief disciples.
Maudgalyayana achieved enlightenment within a week, followed shortly by Sariputra. Their deaths, just before the Buddha’s passing, are marked by poignant tales: Sariputra passed away while converting his mother, and Maudgalyayana met a tragic end at the hands of bandits hired by rival factions. According to Buddhist scriptures, both Sariputra and Maudgalyayana passed away a few months prior to the Buddha.