Leh: Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiran Rijiju described late Kushok Bakula Rinpoche as a visionary leader whose contributions extended far beyond Ladakh to the international arena, particularly in strengthening cultural and spiritual ties with countries like Mongolia. The late leader was India’s Ambassador in Mangolia for a long time.
Rijiju spoke about Rinpoche’s role in promoting modern education in Ladakh, preserving Buddhist traditions, and serving the people through public life despite numerous challenges. He encouraged the younger generation to study and draw inspiration from Rinpoche’s life and assured continued support from the Central government for the development of Ladakh and preservation of its rich Buddhist heritage.
The minister was speaking at the first Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Memorial Lecture at Nagarjuna Hall, Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Leh, as part of the 2569th Vesak Buddha Purnima Week celebrations. The lecture, themed “Peace Beyond Borders,” reflected Ladakh’s rich spiritual heritage and its enduring message of peace and harmony.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and offering of khatag to Lord Shakyamuni Buddha and the revered Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, setting a solemn and respectful tone for the event.
In his keynote address, Rijiju expressed his privilege in being present during the sacred exposition of the Holy Relics in Ladakh and on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima. He highlighted India’s global identity as the land of Lord Buddha and reiterated the message of peace and compassion propagated by India across the world.
Abhijit Halder, Director General of the International Buddhist Confederation, delivered the introductory address. He emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Buddhist values in contemporary society and described the occasion as a moment of pride not only for those present but for the entire region of Ladakh. He highlighted Kushok Bakula Rinpoche as a spiritual leader who harmonized faith with public service, inspiring resilience, integrity, and compassion.
Recalling the global reverence for Buddhist teachings, Halder referred to the journey of sacred relics to Mongolia and underlined Rinpoche’s contributions as India’s Ambassador to Mongolia and Russia. He also informed about the upcoming documentary on the life and legacy of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche and appreciated the UT Administration for initiating the annual memorial lecture to preserve his legacy for future generations.
The session concluded with remarks by Sonam Wangchuk Shakspo, Deputy Secretary General of the Asian Buddhists Conference for Peace, who reflected on his personal association with Kushok Bakula Rinpoche. He highlighted Rinpoche’s pivotal role in establishing institutions such as CIBS and his tireless efforts in reaching remote corners of Ladakh despite difficult terrain and limited resources.
Shakspo also recalled Rinpoche’s efforts in bringing sacred relics to Ladakh and his contributions in addressing the region’s socio-economic challenges, which laid the foundation for the progress and stability Ladakh enjoys today.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Rajesh Ranjan, Vice Chancellor, CIBS, appreciated the UT Administration for its continued support and shared insights into the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
The programme was organized in collaboration with the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Flowering Dharma Ladakh, and the Asian Buddhists Conference for Peace. It witnessed the participation of senior officers, members of the Ladakh Buddhist Association; representatives of religious organizations and other dignitaries from various sectors.
