Maksam TAYENG
Leh, Apr 30: Amid deep spiritual fervour and devotion, the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha arrived in Leh on Wednesday, marking the beginning of a historic spiritual celebration in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, accorded a warm and reverential welcome to the relics at the Technical Area of Leh Airport after their arrival from New Delhi, where they are preserved.
The reception ceremony featured traditional performances, ceremonial honours, and religious rituals. The relics were brought in a special Indian Air Force aircraft by Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and Khenpo Thinlas Chosal of Matho Monastery. Several prominent religious and public figures, including leaders of the Ladakh Gonpa Association and Ladakh Buddhist Association, attended the event.
Ladakh Police presented a ceremonial guard of honour, while monks offered prayers. The Lieutenant Governor also offered khataks and prayers on behalf of the people, invoking peace and well-being.
Following the reception, the relics were taken in a grand procession to Jivetsal, where they will be placed for public exposition beginning May 1, coinciding with the 2569th celebration of Buddha Purnima. Thousands of devotees in traditional attire lined the route, reflecting deep faith and unity.
Describing the occasion as highly auspicious, Saxena said the arrival of the relics has blessed the region. He noted that while the relics have been displayed internationally, this is the first time they have been brought out for exposition within India. He expressed gratitude to PM Narendra Modi for selecting Ladakh for the event and urged people to participate in large numbers.
The relics, which have previously been exhibited in countries such as Thailand, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, will remain in Ladakh for public veneration at Jivetsal from May 2 to 10. They will subsequently be taken to Zanskar on May 11 and 12, followed by display at the Dharma Centre in Leh from May 13 to 14, before being returned to Delhi on May 15.
Several dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, ambassadors, and representatives of Buddhist organisations, are expected to visit Leh during the exposition.