Amid deep spiritual fervour and a devotion-filled atmosphere, the holy relics of Tathagata Buddha landed in Leh today, heralding the commencement of a momentous spiritual celebration in the Union Territory of Ladakh. The event drew significant attention, thanks to the warm welcome extended by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, who greeted the relics upon their arrival at the Technical Area of Leh Airport, having flown in from New Delhi, where these sacred belongings are preserved.
The ritualistic reception included traditional performances, ceremonial honours, and sacred rituals to honour the relics. The relics, accompanied by Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and Khenpo Thinlas Chosal from Matho Monastery on a special Air Force aircraft, received an illustrious welcome. Attendees included prominent religious and community figures, such as Khamtak Rinpoche, Rigyal Rinpoche, and various representatives from social, religious, and political organisations.
The Ladakh Police provided a ceremonial guard of honour, while monks conducted special prayers, creating an atmosphere of reverence. On behalf of the people of Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Saxena offered khataks and prayers, invoking peace and well-being across the region.
Following the ceremonial reception, the relics embarked on a grand procession to Jivetsal, the chosen venue for public exposition starting from May 1, coinciding with the 2569th Buddha Purnima. This event has witnessed overwhelming community participation, signifying unity, faith, and collective reverence as thousands of devotees, dressed in traditional attire, eagerly lined the route to catch a glimpse of the sacred relics.
Lieutenant Governor Saxena deemed the occasion exceptionally auspicious. He explained that while the relics had been exhibited internationally, this event marks the first time they are displayed for public worship within India. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting Ladakh as the venue for this sacred event, citing the region’s enduring connection with Buddhism and spirituality. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the importance of public participation in seeking blessings from Lord Buddha.
Over the years, the Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha have garnered attention across the globe, showcased in various nations, including Thailand, Mongolia, Vietnam, Russia, Singapore, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. In Ladakh, devotees will have the opportunity to venerate the relics at Jivetsal from May 2 to May 10. Following the exposition in Leh, the relics will move to Zanskar on May 11 and 12, then to the Dharma Centre in Leh on May 13 and 14, before returning to Delhi on May 15.
The Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah, will join union ministers, ambassadors, chief ministers of Buddhist-majority states, and representatives from various Buddhist organisations during the veneration, enhancing the significance of this occasion.
Recently, the Piprahwa relics have gained renewed significance. Following a century of colonial possession, a significant collection of associated gems and offerings returned to India in July 2025 from private holdings in Britain, further uplifting their legacy.
With thousands of devotees and tourists expected, the Lieutenant Governor has closely monitored preparations for the event, ordering extensive beautification projects and infrastructure upgrades across Leh. Initiatives include plantation drives, decorative flower placements, and city-wide cleanliness projects, all designed to offer a pleasant and spiritually enriching environment for visitors.
