Today, the holy Piprahwa relics of Tathagata Buddha arrived in Leh, amidst a fervent atmosphere filled with spiritual devotion. This momentous occasion commenced a historic spiritual celebration in the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, extended a warm welcome to the sacred relics upon their arrival at the Technical Area of Leh Airport from New Delhi, where the relics are originally preserved.
The reception ceremony featured traditional performances, ceremonial honours, and sacred rituals. The relics were brought from Delhi by Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and Khenpo Thinlas Chosal of Matho Monastery aboard a special Air Force aircraft. The Lieutenant Governor received them in the presence of respected religious and public figures, including Khamtak Rinpoche, Rigyal Rinpoche, and several representatives from social, religious, and political organizations.
The Ladakh Police performed a ceremonial guard of honour while monks conducted special prayers. The Lieutenant Governor offered khataks and prayers on behalf of the local populace, invoking peace and well-being for all.
Following the ceremonial reception, the relics embarked on a grand procession to Jivetsal, the designated venue for public exposition, starting May 1, in conjunction with the 2569th Buddha Purnima. The procession witnessed overwhelming community participation, reflecting unity and collective reverence, as thousands of devotees dressed in traditional attire lined the route to Jivetsal to catch a glimpse of the sacred relics.
Calling the occasion highly auspicious, Lieutenant Governor Saxena remarked that the relics have blessed the entire region. He indicated that this marks the first time the relics are being exhibited within India after being displayed internationally in various countries, including Thailand, Mongolia, and Vietnam. Saxena expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting Ladakh for this sacred event, highlighting the region’s deep-rooted connection to Buddhism and spirituality. He urged everyone to participate in large numbers to seek the blessings of Lord Buddha.
The Piprahwa relics possess renewed global significance in recent years. After being held in colonial possession for 127 years, a significant collection of associated gems and offerings was repatriated to India in July 2025 from a private collection and a British family.
In anticipation of the influx of devotees and tourists, the Lieutenant Governor has closely monitored preparations for the event, directing beautification and infrastructure measures throughout Leh. Efforts include plantation drives, placement of flower pots, and cleanliness initiatives designed to ensure a pleasant and spiritually enriching experience for all visitors.
The sacred relics will be available for public veneration at Jivetsal from May 2 to May 10. Following this presentation, the relics will be exhibited in Zanskar on May 11 and 12, and then at the Dharma Centre in Leh from May 13 to 14, before they are flown back to Delhi on May 15. Notable figures, including the Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation Amit Shah, will attend the veneration, emphasizing the event’s significance in the Buddhist community.
