In my continuing research journey, I reached out to government institutions for official statements and support, yet faced repeated silence and denial. On 09.03.2023, the Myanmar Ministry of Foreign Affairs refused to acknowledge receipt of a crucial report from the Hswagata Buddha Relics Museum regarding the preservation of sacred Buddha relics. Similarly, the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok rejected my registered airmail containing a report on the Tooth Relics Worship Event at MCU. Even when I sent an “Urgent Assistance Required for Research on Buddhist Relics” letter to the India Embassy in Yangon,and Myanmar Embassy alos but there was no response.
Despite my status as a research scholar, following ethical responsibilities and transparency, my repeated efforts to inform the governments of India and Myanmar about my research have been met with silence. This experience tested my patience and perseverance, challenging me to embody the Buddhist teaching:
I keep reminding myself of the Buddha’s teaching:
“Khantī paramaṃ tapo titikkhā”—
“Patience is the highest austerity.” (Dhammapada 184)
This whole experience is a reminder of some key Buddhist principles:
In the Anguttara Nikaya 6.13, the Buddha teaches that patience in the face of adversity is a mark of true spiritual strength. Even with all these rejections, I’ve tried to embody this khanti.
I’ve stuck to transparency and ethical reporting, following the principle:
“Saccaṃ bhaṇe na kujjheyya”—
“Speak the truth, don’t become angry.” (Dhammapada 224)
From a practical perspective, I’ve learned a lot:
It’s so important to keep records of all these communication attempts—while balancing persistence with a sense of non-attachment.
Maybe it’s time to reach out to Buddhist academic institutions, or explore international Buddhist organizations. And I have to remember that everything is impermanent (anicca), even the unresponsiveness of institutions.
The Buddha’s final guidance always echoes in my mind:
“Appamādena sampādetha”—
“Strive on with diligence.”
May this experience strengthen my resolve to continue the noble task of preserving the Buddha’s relics, no matter how lonely the path may feel.
The researcher.
Sao Dhammasami
Note: As the author of this article, I am an ordinary young monk sharing my personal experiences as they truly happened. This writing is based on official data management sources from my office, as well as documented reports and accounts. I have no intention of harming anyone’s dignity or reputation, and I sincerely apologize if including their names causes any unintended discomfort or concern.
I wish to make it clear that this work does not aim to defame, misrepresent, or cause any damage to any individual or group. It is intended solely to share my personal experiences and the facts as documented in my records. I deeply respect everyone mentioned and humbly seek their understanding.
