A day-long conference on “Tibet-Himalayan Relations” was held in Leh on June 18, focusing on the historical, cultural, and spiritual connections between Ladakh, Tibet, and other Himalayan regions.

The conference was jointly organized by the Centre for Research on Ladakh, Office of the Chief Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Leh, Regional Tibetan Women’s Association, Leh, Regional Tibetan Youth Congress, Leh, and Tibet Policy Institute, Dharamshala.

The conference was chaired by Khenpo Lobzang Tsetan, a renowned scholar of Buddhist philosophy and metaphysics, while Tsering Dorje Lakruk, President of Ladakh Buddhist Association, Leh, participated as a key speaker.

Welcoming scholars and dignitaries, Ladakhi historian Nawang Tsering Shakspo highlighted the deep historical relations between Ladakh and neighbouring Himalayan regions, particularly Tibet. He traced these connections to ancient times, referring to the emergence of the first Tibetan King

Nyathi Tsanpo in 127 BC and the later establishment of the Ladakh kingdom under rulers of Tibetan origin.
Shakspo also highlighted the significance of the Government of India’s decision to send Ladakh’s revered spiritual leader and prominent statesman

Kushok Bakula Rinpoche to extend India’s invitation to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama for the 2500th Buddha Jayanti celebrations held in New Delhi in 1956. He described the event as an important chapter in the history of Buddhism in India.

Addressing the gathering, Chering Dorje Lakruk said that Buddhism in Ladakh currently stands at a critical juncture and requires greater attention and collective efforts. He expressed concern over the declining proportion of the Buddhist population in Ladakh compared to other religious communities.
During the conference, the chief guest released the 12th issue of the Ladakh Review journal edited by Nawang Tsering Shakspo.

The speakers included Dr. Tsewang Dorje Jeshhong from Tibet Policy Institute, Dharamshala; Dr. Nawang Tsering; Geshe Takpa Kalsang; Gelong Thupstan Paldan; Kunga Dodhon; Dr. Stanzin Mingyur; Dr. Tsewang Dorje; Rev. E. Gergan; and Dr. Lhaskyab.

Khenpo Lobzang Tsetan congratulated the participating scholars and stated that the conference would open new avenues for research and study on the history and culture of Himalayan regions, including Ladakh.