Amid deep spiritual fervour and devotion, the holy relics of Tathagata Buddha arrived in Leh today, marking the start of a historic celebration in the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Lieutenant Governor of UT Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, welcomed these sacred relics at the Technical Area, Leh Airport, after their journey from New Delhi, where they are originally preserved.
The reception ceremony featured traditional performances and ceremonial honours. The relics came from Delhi via a special Air Force aircraft, escorted by Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and Khenpo Thinlas Chosal of Matho Monastery. They were received by the Lieutenant Governor alongside prominent religious and public figures such as Khamtak Rinpoche, Rigyal Rinpoche, and various representatives from social, religious, and political organizations.
The Ladakh Police honoured the relics with a ceremonial guard, while monks performed special prayers to mark this significant occasion. The Lieutenant Governor offered khataks and prayers for peace and wellbeing for all inhabitants of Ladakh.
Following the welcoming ceremonies, the relics began a grand procession to Jivetsal, the exhibition venue, commencing May 1, coinciding with the 2569th Buddha Purnima. Enthusiastic community participation characterised the event, with thousands of devotees donning traditional attire lining the route to Jivetsal.
Lieutenant Governor Saxena deemed this occasion as highly auspicious, stating that the arrival of these holy relics has blessed the entire region. He underscored that this marks the first time the relics have been brought out of their original place of preservation for exposition within India. Saxena expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting Ladakh for this event while emphasizing the deep-rooted connections of the region with Buddhism. He encouraged people to join the celebration and seek the blessings of Lord Buddha.
Over the years, the sacred Piprahwa relics have captured global attention, having been exhibited in countries including Thailand, Mongolia, and Vietnam, generating widespread devotion. In Ladakh, these relics will be available for public veneration at Jivetsal from May 2 to May 10, followed by exhibitions in Zanskar on May 11 and 12, and then at the Dharma Centre in Leh from May 13 to 14, before returning to Delhi on May 15.
Visitations from notable dignitaries such as the Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah, union ministers, and representatives from various Buddhist organizations are expected during this time, showcasing the cultural significance of the event.
Recent years have added new significance to the Piprahwa relics of Buddha. After over a century in colonial custody, a significant collection associated with the relics returned to India in July 2025, marking a pivotal moment in their history.
To accommodate the influx of devotees and tourists, the Lieutenant Governor has overseen extensive beautification and infrastructural improvements across Leh. Initiatives include city-wide cleanliness drives, the placement of decorative flower pots, and plantation drives, all aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.
