NEW DELHI — In a significant gesture of international cultural outreach, a strategic airlift aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully transported sacred Buddhist relics from Delhi to Mongolia.
The mission, executed by the IAF’s dependable IL-76 strategic airlift aircraft, famously known as “Grajraj,” carried the holy relics of Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Mahamoggallana, the two chief disciples of Gautama Buddha. The aircraft completed an overnight journey, safely touchdown in Mongolia at 11:25 AM IST on May 30, 2026.
“The mission was undertaken by the IAF in support of India’s efforts to strengthen cultural ties with friendly nations.”
— Ministry of Defence
Key Highlights of the Airlift Mission
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Sacred Cargo: The aircraft carried the highly revered relics of Gautama Buddha’s closest disciples, Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Mahamoggallana, symbolizing deep spiritual heritage.
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Strategic Execution: The IAF Gajraj IL-76 aircraft undertook a precise overnight long-haul flight to seamlessly deliver the relics.
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Cultural Diplomacy: The successful airlift directly highlights the multi-faceted capability of the Indian Air Force to support core national objectives and contribute actively to India’s global cultural outreach initiatives.
The arrival of the holy relics was met with traditional reverence, further cementing the ancient spiritual and historical bonds shared between India and Mongolia.
