Leh: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, emphasised that the region’s rich culture and centuries-old traditions are its lifeline, urging the youth to remain deeply connected to their roots to preserve Ladakh’s unique identity.
He was speaking at the 9th Ladakh dPal rNam Duston celebration, held at NDS Stadium in Leh, where he was joined by First Lady Bindu Gupta.
Addressing a large crowd, the LG said that the celebration is not just a cultural festival but a reaffirmation of Ladakh’s pride, heritage, and collective memory. He noted the remarkable progress the Union Territory has made since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, reaffirming the Union Government and UT Administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people and the protection of Ladakh’s culture, heritage, and language.
He highlighted the importance of cultural exchange programs to help Ladakhi youth understand India’s diversity while staying grounded in their own heritage.
During the ceremony, the Ladakh dPal rNam Award 2025 was conferred upon Ven Bhikkhu Sanghasena, founder of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, in recognition of his lifelong contributions as a spiritual leader and humanitarian.
Scholar and translator Prof. Lobzang Tsewang received the LAHDC Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant academic contributions, while Helena Norberg-Hodge, founder of Local Futures, was honoured with the LAHDC Special Award for her five decades of dedicated service to the people of Ladakh.
Other special recognitions were presented to individuals across diverse fields, including Ishey Yangzom for tourism, Moses Kunzang for administration, Thupstan Shanfan for traditional knowledge and astrology, Ghulam Mustafa and Ghulam Mohiuddin for hospitality, and Ghulam Musa for public service.
The event also marked the launch of key initiatives including Ladakh Norskal, a project aimed at documenting and analysing historic sites across the region, and the Ladakh Homestay program. Two video documentaries were screened during the event—one celebrating the Month of Compassion on the occasion of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, and another highlighting the achievements of the 5th LAHDC Leh.
Cultural performances throughout the day included a theatrical presentation on the story of Angulimala, a traditional costume show, folk dances, contemporary musical acts, and a special performance by Indian Idol star Rito Riba, which captivated the audience.
Addressing the gathering, Chairman of LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson, outlined various initiatives undertaken by the Hill Council and announced the observance of 2025 as the “Year of Compassion” to mark the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
The event was attended by a wide array of dignitaries, including councillors and executive members of LAHDC Leh, Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal, DGP Dr. S.D. Singh Jamwal, former MP Thupstan Chhewang, administrative secretaries, district officials, heads of religious and academic institutions, civil society members, and personnel from the Indian Army, ITBP, and Ladakh Police.
