Itanagar, Jul 27: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik on Sunday visited the revered Sang-ngag Choekhor Dargyeling Monastery, popularly known as Chilipam Monastery, in West Kameng district and offered prayers for peace, prosperity and the well-being of humanity.
Accompanied by local MLA Tseten Chombay, the Governor paid obeisance at the sacred Buddhist shrine, where monks conducted a special prayer ceremony invoking harmony, compassion, spiritual strength and peaceful coexistence among all communities.
Commending the monastery's role in preserving the region's rich Buddhist traditions, spiritual values and cultural heritage, the Governor said monasteries such as Chilipam are not merely places of worship but living institutions that nurture moral values, foster compassion and preserve ancient wisdom that continues to guide society towards peace, harmony and mutual respect.
Drawing from his extensive service in Buddhist regions ranging from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, including Bhutan, the Governor highlighted the significant role Buddhist institutions play in strengthening social cohesion and promoting tolerance and understanding.
He also noted that Chilipam Monastery, with its distinctive architecture, sacred relics, vibrant monastic traditions and serene surroundings, attracts devotees, pilgrims, scholars and tourists from across India and abroad. Such heritage sites, he said, contribute significantly to cultural tourism while deepening appreciation for Arunachal Pradesh's diverse and enduring traditions.
During the visit, the Governor interacted with the monastery's revered spiritual leader and Abbot, Rimpoche Trulku Tenzin Jigme, who briefed him on initiatives aimed at imparting spiritual education, preserving Buddhist teachings and guiding young people towards lives rooted in discipline, compassion and ethical values.
Appreciating these efforts, the Governor stressed the importance of engaging the younger generation in preserving the State's rich cultural and spiritual legacy.
Commissioner to the Governor Pawan Kumar Sain, West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar, SP D W Thungon and Sherdukpen community leaders also accompanied the Governor during his maiden visit to the monastery.
Located atop a scenic hill about 15 km from Rupa, Chilipam Monastery overlooks the majestic Eastern Himalayas and is regarded as one of Arunachal Pradesh's prominent Buddhist heritage sites. Surrounded by pristine natural beauty, the monastery continues to inspire visitors with its message of peace, mindfulness and harmonious coexistence while serving as a symbol of the State's vibrant spiritual and cultural heritage.