Cultural Evening program commences in Leh to Mark 2569th Vesak Celebrations
03/05/2026
Leh, May 02 (KIP)-The Administration of UT Ladakh, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, commenced a series of daily evening cultural programmes from May 2 to 13, 2026, in connection with the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, marking the 2569th Vesak Purnima. The inaugural programme, held at Leh Main Market under the theme “Peace Beyond Borders,” began with the traditional Lhar-Nah. Performances were presented by CATS Cultural Group, Leh; artists from Arunachal Pradesh and Bihar; a Mongolian troupe; Shinto cultural group, Drass; and DASHUG Band. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The Worthy Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra (IAS), was also present. Among other dignitaries in attendance were Shri Sanjit Rodrigues, IAS, Secretary, Tourism & Culture Department, UT Ladakh, and Shri Mandeep Mittal, IFS, Additional Secretary, Department of Tourism & Culture and Department of Forest, Ecology & Environment and delegation from Mongolia. In his address, the Hon’ble Chief Minister expressed his gratitude and described the occasion as a historic moment, highlighting the significance of hosting the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha in Ladakh. He extended his best wishes to the people of Ladakh and encouraged continued cultural and spiritual harmony. He also warmly welcomed the audience to his home state, Arunachal Pradesh, and appreciated the longstanding cultural ties between Mongolia and Ladakh, strengthened through the legacy of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche. Adding a personal touch to the evening, Shri Pema Khandu also sang a song for the audience. The performances included the traditional Jhijhiya dance from Bihar, dedicated to Goddess Durga, and a Mongolian performance in devotion to Goddess Tara (Jetsun Pema), reflecting the spiritual depth and cultural richness of the participating regions. At last local band DHASHUG ended the programme on a high note. The evening concluded celebrating unity in diversity and reinforcing the message of peace beyond borders.