Leh: With an aim to initiate dialogue and discussion about the preservation of cultural heritage in Ladakh, an event was organised by the Shesrig Foundation in collaboration with the Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation (HCHF), with support from Tata Trusts.
The event was attended by representatives from different organisations and individuals working in the field of cultural preservation in Ladakh.
While welcoming the participants, Dr Sonam Wangchok, the founder of HCHF, stressed the importance of dialogue and discussion among the organisations and individuals with similar aims and objectives for collective efforts in heritage preservation.
The chief guest on the occasion, Shri Stanzin Chosphel, Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, informed the audience about several initiatives of LAHDC Leh, including the allocation of funds for heritage conservation and preservation in Leh district and the conservation of archival land records and documentation of heritage sites in Ladakh.
Chosphel appreciated Dr Noor Jahan and Dr Sonam Wangchok for initiating the discussion among the organizations and individuals working in the field of cultural preservation in Ladakh.
Different organisations and individuals shared their activities and achievements in the field of cultural preservation in Ladakh.
On behalf of the Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation, Dr Sonam Wangchok, in his presentation, highlighted major achievements and initiatives of his foundation, such as stupa restorations, wall painting conservation, revival of intangible heritage, training programmes, publications, awareness programmes and initiatives through rock art unit under the ages of HCHF.
Prof. Tashi Ldawa, in his presentation, stressed the importance of petroglyphs as an important source for research and study about ancient tribal movements in the region.
He spoke about different sites in Ladakh, the status of their preservation and various challenges. He also discussed a way forward for preserving rock arts in Ladakh.
Monisha Ahmad, the Director of Ladakh Arts and Media Organisation, shared several activities organised by LAMO since its inception. She also stressed the importance of preserving the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh for future generations.
Similarly, Dr Noor Jahan, Director of the Shesrig Foundation, emphasised the importance of conserving wall paintings, scroll paintings (thangka) and religious objects. She also shared the activities of Shesrig in and outside Ladakh.
Wangyal Tsering, Convenor, INTACH Leh chapter, shared restoration and publication works done by INTACH in Ladakh. Besides, Dr Jigmet Wangmo, Project Assistant, IGNCA, and Faiza Khan, Architect, Field Studios, also spoke on their initiatives in the field of heritage conservation.
Special guest on the occasion, Shri Mipham Otsal, Director of the Ladakh Theatre Organisation (LTO), appreciated the organisers and the heritage lovers for their selfless efforts in preserving Ladakh’s cultural identity.
Meanwhile, a book on Traditional Kitchen and Ethnic Food of Ladakh authored by Rashida Kousar under the Samvaad Fellowship of Tata Steel Foundation was launched during the event.
