Leh: Spituk Monastery marked the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama with a blend of development and tradition — laying the foundation stone for a Solar Lift Irrigation Scheme and inaugurating Riglam (traditional Buddhist dialectical training) classes.
The irrigation project, designed to tackle water scarcity in higher-altitude hamlets of Spituk, was inaugurated by His Eminence Bakula Rinpoche Tenzin Ngawang Jigmet Wangchuk, along with CEC LAHDC Leh Adv. Tashi Gyalson, Phyang Councillor Tundup Nurbu, ADC Ghulam Mohammad, and other officials.
Chokje Lama Geshe Lobsang Wangchok expressed gratitude to the Hill Council for supporting the monastery’s long-standing demand. He said the project was not just about water supply but also about ecological restoration, as advised by the Oracle, and was dedicated to the long life of His Holiness.
CEC Tashi Gyalson called the initiative a timely step towards water security and environmental conservation, complementing ongoing plantation drives in the region.
Later, a special inaugural ceremony for Riglam classes was held at Spetup Photang, organised by Spituk Gonpa, Spituk villagers, and Pethub Khangtsen. Students from across Ladakh gathered to begin their training in this traditional art of logical reasoning, questioning, and analytical thinking — core to Buddhist education.
Speakers, including Deputy Chairman Tsering Angchuk and Councillor Tundup Nurbu, highlighted the importance of preserving the Bhoti language, the Nalanda tradition, and values of compassion, logic, and service in modern life.
In his keynote address, Bakula Rinpoche reminded participants that Riglam is “not just an exercise for the mind, but a way to act wisely and compassionately in society.” He encouraged the youth to combine spiritual learning with community service.
The celebrations concluded with a vote of thanks by Nambardar Jigmet Wangchuk, who praised the efforts of monks, villagers, and organisers in making the day a memorable tribute to His Holiness.
