Ladakh a Living Land of Dharma for Centuries: Amit Shah at Buddha Relics Event

Union Home Minister Amit Shah described Ladakh as a “living land of dharma” that has preserved and nurtured Buddhist teachings for centuries, highlighting its spiritual and cultural significance.

Speaking in Leh during the inauguration of the sacred relics exposition of Tathagata Buddha and the 2569th Buddha Purnima celebrations, Shah termed the return of the holy relics after 75 years as a “historic reunion”. He said the presence of the relics symbolises India’s long-standing message of peace, compassion, and coexistence.

Emphasising the relevance of Buddha’s teachings in the modern world, Shah said the principles of peace, compassion, and the middle path are even more important today amid global conflicts and unrest.

He noted that Ladakh has played a crucial role in preserving Buddhist knowledge, especially during periods of crisis, and in spreading these teachings across regions including China through ancient trade and cultural routes.

Highlighting the historical evolution of Buddhism in the region, Shah said the influence began through Kashmir and Gandhara, with Emperor Ashoka’s envoys laying its foundation. He added that Mahayana Buddhism expanded during the Kushan period, while later Tibetan influence further enriched Ladakh’s spiritual traditions.

Shah also underlined the importance of combining knowledge, spiritual practice, and moral discipline, stating that true wisdom can only be achieved through their integration.

During the event, he inaugurated the exposition of sacred Buddha relics at Jivetsal in Leh through traditional rituals and paid homage to the relics. The relics, brought from Piprahwa in Uttar Pradesh, will be displayed for public viewing at multiple locations in Ladakh over the coming days.

The Union minister also called upon the administration to ensure proper arrangements for devotees from all faiths to visit and pay respects to the relics during the exhibition period.