Leh: The 29th Sindhu Darshan Utsav began with great spiritual fervour and patriotic zeal at Sindhu Ghat in Leh, marking yet another chapter in the celebration of India’s civilizational roots, cultural diversity, and national unity.
Organised by the Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti, the three-day festival is being observed from June 23 to 26, drawing pilgrims and cultural troupes from across the country.
In a spiritually significant and ceremonial gathering held on June 24, His Holiness the Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche inaugurated the construction of a Buddha statue at Shey Manla, near Sindhu Ghat.
The ceremony was held in the presence of His Eminence Chokyong Palga Rinpoche, Chairman, Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson; Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal; DGP, Ladakh S.D Singh Jamwal, Chief Patron of the Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti, Shri Indresh Kumar; and Deputy Commissioner, Chief Executive Officer Leh, Romil Singh Donk.
Also present on the occasion were; Vice Chancellor of the University of Ladakh, Prof. Saket Kushwaha; Director of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa Dr. Gurmet, CRO Leh, President of the Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti, Shri Murli Das, Vice President/ MLA Sh. Vikram Randhawa and members, esteemed monks, district officials, and dignitaries.
A large number of yatris and cultural groups from various states of India also participated, lending the event a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
Addressing the gathering, the CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson welcomed all guests, pilgrims, and participants who had travelled from different corners of the country to be part of the Sindhu Darshan.
He emphasised the profound cultural and spiritual importance of the Sindhu (Indus) River, which has nurtured Indian civilisation for millennia and continues to be a powerful symbol of unity and national pride. “Ladakh is not only the crown of India geographically, but also spiritually.
The Sindhu River flows through this land carrying with it the essence of our shared civilisational values,” he said.
He also underscored the importance of preserving the sanctity and purity of the Sindhu River and called upon people to respect and protect the natural and spiritual heritage of Ladakh.
Highlighting the government’s focus on border area development, he mentioned the growing potential of Demjok, one of the last Indian villages along the border which is now being developed for sustainable tourism with enhanced road connectivity.
“I invite all our fellow citizens to visit the remote regions of Ladakh where the Sindhu flows with the same sacredness, carrying the message of peace and unity,” he added.
Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh, Dr Pawan Kotwal, in his address, expressed appreciation for the efforts taken to promote Ladakh as a destination of spiritual importance.
He said that events like the Sindhu Darshan Utsav not only reinforce national integration but also showcase Ladakh’s unmatched cultural and ecological heritage.
He emphasised the need to balance tourism development with environmental protection, and reiterated the Administration’s commitment to preserving the region’s sacred sites and river systems.
Chief Patron of the Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti, Indresh Kumar, also spoke on the occasion and delivered an inspiring address rooted in patriotism and spiritual philosophy.
He described the Sindhu River as a living embodiment of India’s unity and strength, and lauded Ladakh for hosting this annual spiritual gathering.
As part of the day’s festivities, vibrant cultural programmes were held, showcasing traditional music, folk dances, and rituals from multiple Indian states. Artists adorned in colourful regional attire performed on the banks of the Sindhu, symbolising the rich diversity and collective spirit of the nation.
To mark the occasion, mementos were presented to dignitaries and special guests as a gesture of appreciation for their presence and contributions.
The atmosphere was deeply reverent yet celebratory, as pilgrims offered prayers to the Sindhu and participated in the spiritual rituals with great devotion.
The 29th Sindhu Darshan Utsav continues to be a resounding tribute to India’s timeless civilisational spirit and Ladakh’s growing role in preserving and promoting the country’s spiritual, cultural, and ecological identity.
