Sao Dhammasami (Researcher) emailed Dr. Ashin Nyanissara (Sitagu Sayadawgyi) about preserving and testing Buddha tooth relics, receiving a phone call in response.
Research and Data Collection at the British Museum
- Did Dr. Ashin Nyanissara visit the British Museum in England for the purpose of researching and collecting data related to the Buddha Tooth Relics? If so, what were the specific objectives and outcomes of his visit?
Acquisition of Relics from Ancient Sites
- Did Dr. Ashin Nyanissara bring Buddha Tooth Relics, along with bone relics, ashes, hair, and robes, from ancient stupas in regions such as Afghanistan and Pakistan (formerly part of India)? If so, how were these relics identified and authenticated before being preserved at Sitagu Sayadawgyi’s temple?
DNA and Carbon-14 Testing
- Did Dr. Ashin Nyanissara arrange for DNA and Carbon-14 testing of the Buddha Tooth Relics in England? What was the purpose of conducting these tests, and which institutions were involved in the process?
Unintended Damage During Testing
- Was Dr. Ashin Nyanissara informed that DNA and Carbon-14 testing procedures might involve irreversible changes to the relics, such as reducing parts of them to powder? If so, what were his reactions to this, and how was the preservation of the relics addressed post-testing?
Laboratory Fire Incident
- Is it true that the laboratory where the DNA and Carbon-14 testing was conducted experienced a fire after the tests were completed? If so, what were the circumstances, and were any significant materials or findings lost in the incident?
Preservation of 28 Tooth Relics
- Is it accurate that Dr. Ashin Nyanissara currently preserves a total of 28 tooth relics, which were allegedly collected from ancient sites in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and other regions of old India? How are these relics being maintained, and what are the plans for their future preservation and research?
"You can view Dr. Ashin Nyanssara (Sitagu Sayardawgyi)'s answer at this link." https://www.hswagata.com/2024/12/debunking-misinformation-surrounding.html
Bhikkhuindasoma (siridantamahapalaka)
Researcher ,Writer and Master Treainer
Ph.D(Candidate), M.A(Pali)