Leh, May 2: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday described his visit to Ladakh as spiritually enriching and culturally inspiring, expressing hope that the sacred exposition of the Holy Relics of Gautama Buddha would also be brought to Arunachal Pradesh.
During his visit to Leh, Khandu had the darshan of the Holy Relics of Gautama Buddha and called it a moment of “immense pride and profound spiritual joy” as the revered Piprahwa Relics reached the land of Ladakh, filling the region with devotion and peace.
He said Arunachal Pradesh, with its deep-rooted Buddhist heritage, is ready to host the sacred exposition so that people of the state can also receive the blessings of the Holy Relics on their own soil.
“We are actively working to ensure that these Holy Relics are also brought to Arunachal Pradesh,” Khandu said, adding that the teachings of Buddha continue to guide humanity towards compassion, wisdom, and unity.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated two major exhibitions at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies in Leh. One exhibition was dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, showcasing the life, teachings, and spiritual legacy of the great master who spread the message of compassion and wisdom across the Himalayas.
The second exhibition, titled “Buddhism Through Postage Stamps,” featured an extraordinary philatelic collection of over 2,500 postal stamps from across the world, reflecting how Buddha’s teachings have transcended borders, cultures, and generations.
Calling both exhibitions remarkable, Khandu said they beautifully highlighted the timeless relevance of Buddhist teachings and their global cultural impact.
Later, the Arunachal CM visited the renowned Druk Padma Karpo School in Leh, where he was warmly welcomed by the school community and attended vibrant cultural performances presented by students.
He described the visit as deeply inspiring and appreciated the school’s unique blend of education, culture, and values.
Khandu said he felt especially blessed to be in the presence of His Eminence Skyabje Thuksey Rinpoche, Chairman of the school, whose vision, he said, goes beyond academics and focuses on nurturing compassionate and responsible human beings.
“Education is not just about knowledge, but about building character and creating a better world,” he said, praising the institution for shaping future generations with compassion, harmony, and excellence.
In another engagement, Khandu also met Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, describing him as a brilliant and dedicated officer whose tenure in Arunachal Pradesh is remembered for impactful reforms and progressive governance initiatives.
The Arunachal Chief Minister said interacting with experienced administrators like Kundra is always enriching and inspiring.
Khandu’s visit comes at a time when Ladakh is witnessing a major spiritual gathering with the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Buddha Relics drawing thousands of devotees and leaders from across the country.
