Conference on “Past, Present and Future of Buddhism in Ladakh” Held Under the Chairmanship of H.E. Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche

Leh, May 09, 2026: As part of the ongoing 15-day Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Gautama Buddha in Ladakh, the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh in collaboration with the Ladakh Gonpa Association organised a conference on the theme “Past, Present and Future of Buddhism in Ladakh” at Dharma Centre, Leh. The conference was chaired by His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and attended by monks, scholars, officials, students and members of the public.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest, Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, along with His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and eminent Rinpoches from across Ladakh.

The inaugural session began with a welcome address by President of the Ladakh Gonpa Association, Dorjey Stanzin, who highlighted the spiritual significance of the sacred Buddha relics and appreciated the support of the UT Administration in organising the exposition. He stated that the conference aimed to deliberate on the historical roots, present condition and future prospects of Buddhism in Ladakh.

In his opening remarks, His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche described the arrival of the sacred relics as a great blessing for the people of Ladakh. He emphasised the role of Buddhism in shaping Ladakh’s spiritual and cultural identity and stressed the importance of preserving Buddhist teachings, heritage and values for future generations. He also urged the younger generation to remain connected with their culture, history and traditions.

During the conference, a book titled Gon Sum La Stodpa Rangshar Melong authored by Khenchen Tsering Rigzin was formally released.