Leh, April 9: Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting with revered Rinpoches, monks, officials and key stakeholders to review preparations for the upcoming Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha in Leh and Zanskar.
The meeting was attended by prominent spiritual leaders including Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche, Palga Rinpoche, Stakna Rinpoche and Ven. Sanghasena of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, along with representatives from various monasteries.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on preparatory rituals and ceremonial arrangements. It was informed that the All Ladakh Gonpa Association will coordinate chanting recitals involving monks from 16 monasteries. The Rinpoches suggested organising a unified chanting of mantras and enhancing the spiritual experience through innovative initiatives such as drone-based visual presentations depicting the life of Lord Buddha—from birth to enlightenment.
Suggestions also included spreading awareness through pamphlets and QR-based information at key tourist points, including Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, installation of informational standees at hotels and guest houses, and holding a special prayer at Khardung La.
Agreeing with the proposals, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for seamless coordination to ensure a world-class experience for devotees and visitors. He directed that major landmarks such as Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Monastery and Leh Main Market be illuminated to create a festive atmosphere.
Describing the exposition as a historic occasion, Saxena said the event presents a unique opportunity to position Ladakh as a global hub for spiritual and wellness tourism. He also emphasised robust security measures, installation of CCTV cameras, and ensuring adequate drinking water and public facilities for visitors.
The sacred relics are scheduled to arrive in Leh on April 29 and will be received with a grand ceremonial welcome. The 2569th Buddha Purnima will be celebrated on May 1 at Jivetsal, followed by public exposition from May 2 to May 9. The relics will then be taken to Zanskar on May 11 and 12, before being displayed at the Dharma Centre in Choglamsar on May 13 and 14, and later flown back to Delhi on May 15.
In parallel, exhibitions of Buddhist artefacts and scriptures will be held at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies and Leh Palace. A series of events, including meditation and yoga sessions, medical camps, interfaith dialogues, and international seminars on Himalayan Buddhism and peace, will be organised at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre.
The programme will also feature film screenings on the life of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, memorial lecture series, and a special talk on “Modern Science and Buddhism,” making the exposition a comprehensive spiritual and cultural event.
