Amid deep spiritual fervour, the holy Piprahwa relics of Tathagata Buddha arrived in Leh today, marking the onset of a historic celebration in Ladakh. The Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, warmly welcomed the sacred relics at Leh Airport, flown in from New Delhi.
The ceremonial reception showcased traditional performances and sacred rituals. Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche and Khenpo Thinlas Chosal of Matho Monastery brought the relics in a special Air Force aircraft. Prominent figures including Khamtak Rinpoche and representatives of various social, religious, and political organisations joined the reception.
The Ladakh Police offered a ceremonial guard of honour, while monks performed special prayers for peace and well-being. The Lieutenant Governor presented khataks, invoking blessings for the people of Ladakh.
The relics will now be part of a grand procession to Jivetsal, the venue for public exposition starting May 1, which coincides with the 2569th Buddha Purnima. Thousands of devotees dressed in traditional attire participated, reflecting unity and spirituality across Ladakh.
Lieutenant Governor Saxena described the occasion as highly auspicious, emphasizing that this is the first time the relics will be exhibited in India outside their original place of preservation. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting Ladakh as the host for this revered event, marking the region’s strong ties to Buddhism.
The holy relics, which have drawn immense global attention through exhibitions in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Mongolia, will be available for veneration at Jivetsal until May 10. Following that, they will move to Zanskar on May 11 and 12, and then to the Dharma Centre in Leh from May 13 to 14, before returning to Delhi on May 15.
Officials expect a significant turnout with several dignitaries scheduled to visit Leh, including the Minister of Home Affairs, Amit Shah, along with ambassadors and Chief Ministers from Buddhist-majority states.
The Piprahwa relics have seen renewed interest recently, especially after a collection of associated gems and offerings returned to India in July 2025, after being under colonial possession for 127 years.
In preparation for the influx of devotees and tourists, the Lieutenant Governor has initiated extensive beautification and infrastructure measures across Leh. Initiatives include plantation drives, flower pot installations, and city cleanliness efforts to ensure a spiritually enriching experience for all visitors.
