Kiren Rijiju Honors Kushok Bakula Rinpoche’s Legacy of Peace and Education in Ladakh
LEH, May 05 — The inaugural Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Memorial Lecture was held today at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies as part of the 2569th Vesak Buddha Purnima Week celebrations. Themed “Peace Beyond Borders,” the event served as a tribute to the spiritual and social contributions of the late visionary leader.
Kiren Rijiju, Union Cabinet Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, delivered the keynote address, highlighting India’s identity as the land of Lord Buddha. He praised Kushok Bakula Rinpoche for his dual role as a spiritual guide and a diplomat who strengthened cultural ties between India, Mongolia, and Russia, while simultaneously championing modern education and the preservation of Buddhist traditions within Ladakh.
During the lecture, Abhijit Halder, Director General of the International Buddhist Confederation, emphasized the Rinpoche’s ability to harmonize faith with public service. He revealed that a documentary is currently in production to document the Rinpoche’s life and thanked the Union Territory administration for establishing this annual memorial lecture to inspire future generations.
Further insights were provided by Sonam Wangchuk Shakspo, who recalled the Rinpoche’s tireless efforts to reach remote areas of Ladakh and his instrumental role in establishing local institutions that provided a foundation for the region’s current socio-economic stability.
The program, organized in collaboration with Flowering Dharma Ladakh and the Asian Buddhists Conference for Peace, was attended by senior dignitaries including Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra and various religious leaders.
Vice Chancellor Rajesh Ranjan concluded the session by reiterating the importance of Lord Buddha’s teachings in contemporary society and appreciating the government’s continued support for Ladakh’s Buddhist heritage.
The event featured a ceremonial lighting of the lamp and an exposition of holy relics, underscoring the deep spiritual reverence the region maintains for its historical and religious icons.