New Delhi/Leh: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Thursday inaugurated the exposition of the sacred relics of Lord Gautama Buddha in Leh, marking a significant spiritual and cultural occasion for Ladakh.
The event, held on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, was attended by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinay Kumar Saxena, the Union Home Secretary, and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Shah described the return of the sacred relics to Ladakh after 75 years as a “historic and truly golden occasion.” He said the presence of the relics would inspire followers of Buddhism as well as people of other faiths, adding that the day holds special significance as Buddha Purnima marks the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana of Lord Buddha.
He said the event was not only religious but also symbolic of a historic reunion, noting that Ladakh has long been a “living land of Dhamma” and a center for preserving and propagating Buddhist teachings. Referring to the region’s spiritual legacy, Shah said Ladakh has played a crucial role in safeguarding and spreading the message of peace and compassion during both challenging and stable periods in history.
Highlighting Ladakh’s cultural heritage, the minister said the region’s identity has been shaped by major Buddhist traditions, including Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug. He emphasized that the teachings emerging from this land—such as understanding reality, combining knowledge with practice, and adhering to moral discipline—remain relevant globally.
Shah said the presence of the relics serves as a reminder of India’s long-standing message of peace and coexistence. He noted that this message is particularly significant in diverse regions like Ladakh and Kargil, where harmony and mutual respect are essential.
Tracing the historical spread of Buddhism, Shah said Ladakh has been an important center for Buddhist studies, philosophy, and art, with roots dating back to the time of Emperor Ashoka. He added that through trade routes like the Silk Route, Buddhist teachings spread from India to Central Asia and beyond, while later contributions from Tibetan traditions and the establishment of monasteries further strengthened the religion’s institutional base in the region.
He said that even today, Ladakh’s contribution to Buddhist knowledge is widely acknowledged across the world, and that the opportunity to witness the sacred relics is considered equivalent to having the darshan of Lord Buddha himself.
Urging the administration to ensure proper arrangements for visitors, Shah said people from all communities should be able to access the exposition. He added that even after 2,500 years, the teachings of Lord Buddha continue to offer guidance to the world, especially in promoting peace, balance, and solutions through the middle path.
