In a significant spiritual event, the holy Piprahwa relics of Tathagata Buddha arrived in Leh today, initiating a momentous celebration in the Union Territory of Ladakh. This historic occasion featured a ceremonial welcome by the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, as the revered relics landed at the Technical Area, Leh Airport from New Delhi, their permanent home.
The arrival ceremony showcased traditional performances, ceremonial honours, and various sacred rituals. Brought from Delhi aboard a special Air Force aircraft, the relics were escorted by Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and Khenpo Thinlas Chosal from Matho Monastery. Prominent religious leaders and public figures, including Khamtak Rinpoche, Rigyal Rinpoche, and other esteemed personalities from the Ladakh Gonpa Association and Ladakh Buddhist Association, attended this momentous greeting.
The Ladakh Police rendered a ceremonial guard of honour, while monks performed special prayers to mark the sacred occasion. On behalf of the people of Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Saxena offered khataks and prayers, invoking peace and wellbeing for all, embodying the devotion present at the event.
Following the inspiring reception, the sacred relics commenced their journey in a grand procession to Jivetsal, designated for public exposition starting May 1, coinciding with the 2569th Buddha Purnima. This event has attracted overwhelming participation from communities throughout Ladakh, symbolizing unity, faith, and reverence, as thousands of devotees adorned in traditional attire flocked along the route to glimpse the sacred relics.
Describing the event as auspicious, Lieutenant Governor Saxena stated that the arrival of these holy relics has blessed the entire region. He highlighted that although the relics had been exhibited internationally before, this is the first time they are showcased within India since their preservation began. Saxena expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting Ladakh as the venue for this veneration, emphasizing the region’s deep connection with Buddhism and spirituality. He urged the public to attend in large numbers to receive blessings from Lord Buddha.
The sacred Piprahwa relics have previously been displayed in several countries such as Thailand, Mongolia, Vietnam, Russia, Singapore, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, drawing attention and devotion globally. During their stay in Ladakh, these relics will be available for public veneration at Jivetsal from May 2 to May 10, after which they will be exhibited in Zanskar on May 11 and 12, and later at the Dharma Centre in Leh from May 13 to 14, before returning to Delhi on May 15.
The anticipation of the arrival of these relics has attracted significant attention. Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah, along with numerous union ministers, Ambassadors, Chief Ministers of predominantly Buddhist states, and representatives from various Buddhist organizations, will visit Leh for this veneration.
Having gained heightened global significance, the Piprahwa relics were repatriated to India in July 2025, after 127 years in colonial possession, alongside a collection of valuable offerings and gems.
In preparation for the anticipated surge in visitors and devotees, the Lieutenant Governor has closely monitored arrangements, directing beautification and infrastructure initiatives across Leh. Planting drives, flower pot installations, and comprehensive cleanliness measures have been implemented to ensure a pleasant and spiritually enriching experience for all attendees.
