The 91st Birth Anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama was celebrated with profound devotion, enthusiasm, and grandeur at Jivetsal, Choglamsar, Leh, on July 6.

Organised by the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), Leh, the occasion drew thousands of devotees from across Ladakh, who gathered to offer prayers, celebrate the spiritual leader's life, and seek his blessings.

Addressing the gathering, His Holiness delivered an inspiring message on the transformative power of faith and compassion. He emphasised that deeply rooted spiritual and religious values help individuals overcome greed, attachment, and other worldly afflictions, ultimately guiding humanity towards a more meaningful, harmonious, and peaceful existence.

The celebration was attended by several dignitaries, including Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh Ashish Kundra, IAS, Administrative Secretary, School Education Department, Bhanu Prabha, IAS, senior government officials, religious leaders, and community representatives.

On the occasion, Bhanu Prabha, IAS, was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The honour, conferred by the Ladakh Buddhist Association, recognised her exemplary leadership, vision, and outstanding contribution to transforming the government school education system in Ladakh.

The award acknowledged her efforts in implementing significant reforms that have helped government schools in Leh evolve into model institutions known for quality education, improved learning environments, and strong community participation.

Under her leadership, the School Education Department has adopted an inclusive and participatory approach by actively engaging village communities, local stakeholders, and parents in the development and revitalisation of government schools. These initiatives have strengthened public confidence in the government education system and encouraged increased enrolment in government schools.

The citation also recognised her administrative acumen, collaborative leadership, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ladakh's children. Her work reflects the values of compassion, service, and community welfare championed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The Certificate of Appreciation was presented as a token of gratitude and respect from the people of Ladakh for her invaluable contribution to the education sector. The occasion also celebrated the transformative initiatives undertaken by the School Education Department under her leadership, which continue to inspire educational excellence across the Union Territory.

The School Education Department expressed gratitude to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and the Ladakh Buddhist Association for the recognition and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening quality, inclusive, and equitable education for every child in Ladakh.

The celebrations were further enlivened by vibrant cultural performances presented by students of TCV Leh and artists from the Ladakhi and Tibetan communities, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage through traditional dances and musical performances.

The programme concluded with a special theatrical presentation of "Angulimala," bringing to a close a day marked by spiritual reverence, cultural pride, and joyous celebration.