Piprahwa Buddha Relics Bid Farewell in Leh After 14-Day Exposition Drawing 1.18 Lakh Devotees

The sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha were given an emotional farewell at Leh Airport on Friday , marking the conclusion of a 14-day grand exposition in Ladakh’s Leh district that drew more than 1.18 lakh devotees from India and abroad, officials said.

The closing ceremony, attended by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena , witnessed participation from monks, nuns, Rinpoches, pilgrims, scholars, diplomats and people from various walks of life. Saxena said the exposition transformed Ladakh into a “land of prayer, compassion and spiritual awakening” , adding that the spiritual energy generated would continue to inspire the region.

He noted that the teachings of Lord Buddha promote peace, harmony and brotherhood beyond borders , expressing hope that Ladakh would emerge as a global centre of spiritual reflection and contemplation . The LG also thanked all agencies, including the Ladakh Buddhist Association, monastic bodies, security forces and administration, for ensuring the smooth conduct of the event.

The exposition, inaugurated on May 1 at Jivetsal in Leh on Buddha Purnima by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, witnessed nine days of public display before being moved to Karsha Gonpa in Zanskar . Thousands lined the roads on April 29 to welcome the relics, reflecting deep public reverence.

The concluding ceremony coincided with Monlam Chenmo , the annual Great Prayer Festival dedicated to world peace and universal happiness, during which monks performed sacred mask dances ( Chhams ) and special prayers.

Dignitaries including Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu , Union Minister Kiren Rijiju , ambassadors from Sri Lanka and Thailand, and senior Buddhist leaders participated.

Officials said such large-scale spiritual gatherings highlight Ladakh’s growing significance as a global centre of Buddhist heritage, cultural unity and interfaith harmony , reinforcing the enduring relevance of Buddha’s message of compassion and peace.