On the auspicious 15th day of Saga Dawa, observed as Buddha Purnima—marking the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana of Lord Buddha—and coinciding with the spiritually significant Wednesday (Lhaza or Lhakkar), a grand religious and cultural celebration, Darchen Kujeng, was held at Lhari Karpo (popularly known as Chota Kailash) on June 11 at Demjok, Changthang.

Organized jointly by LAHDC Leh, Ladakh Ngari Tsogspa, local villagers, Tibetan residents of Demjok, Koyul, and Dungti, along with the Indian Army and ITBP, the event united hundreds of devotees, monks, dignitaries, and cultural groups in reverence for the shared Indo-Tibetan Buddhist heritage.

The event began with the ceremonial reception of the Chief Guest, His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche, followed by the hoisting of the national flag and singing of the national anthem, symbolizing unity and national pride.

Spiritual proceedings included the offering of Skusum Mandal, Riwo Sangchod smoke purification prayers, and the erection of the central Darchen and prayer flags. 
Key highlight was the erection of 90 Darchens (prayer poles) dedicated to the long life of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who turns 90 on 6 July 2025. Additionally, 630 saplings were planted to commemorate the 63rd birth anniversary of His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa Rinpoche, symbolizing compassion and ecological balance.

His Eminence Skyabje Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche, in his keynote address, highlighted the deep spiritual and historical ties between Ladakh and Tibet. He lauded the extraordinary contributions of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa Rinpoche in fostering peace, compassion, and spiritual growth in Ladakh. He also called upon the community to safeguard and sanctify the sacred land of Demjok, home to revered sites such as Dechok Khorlo Dompa (Chakrasamvara Mandala) and other divine manifestations.

Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, Former Member of Parliament (17th Lok Sabha), emphasized the profound spiritual significance of Demjok, situated just 250 km by air from Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake. He highlighted the sacredness of Mount Kailash—revered in Buddhism as the abode of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig), in Hinduism as the seat of Lord Shiva, and in Jainism as the site of Rishabhdev’s liberation.

He strongly advocated for opening the Bharat-Kailash pilgrimage route via Demjok to revive age-old spiritual ties and enhance India’s cultural and strategic outreach. He also underscored the strategic importance of Demjok and the surrounding Changthang region in reinforcing border presence, advancing cultural diplomacy, and strengthening national security.

Tashi Namgyal Yakzee, Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, emphasized the importance of institutionalizing this event as a grand annual celebration of Buddha Purnima in the Changthang region. He highlighted the transformative impact of the Vibrant Villages Programme, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on remote border villages like Demjok.

He outlined key developmental achievements in the region, including the expansion of mobile and digital connectivity, the introduction of solar energy initiatives in remote hamlets, the strengthening of border infrastructure and road networks, and enhanced support for nomadic communities and livestock-based livelihoods.

Ishey Spalzang, Councillor, LAHDC Leh; Kunga Thinley, President, Central Ngari Chithun Association; Brig. Shishar Bhardwaj, HQ 15th Sector, Rashtriya Rifles, Indian Army; Ven. Lama Acharya Ishey Phuntsok, Former President, Central Ngari Chithun Association; along with several other distinguished dignitaries, graced the occasion with their presence.

The session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by the local Komnyer (village representative), followed by a community lunch and the vibrant Lhakkar Thabston—a colorful celebration of Changthang’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dance, music, and folk performances.

Darchen Kujeng 2025 emerged as a powerful expression of Ladakh’s living Buddhist heritage—honoring sacred traditions, deepening Indo-Tibetan spiritual ties, and promoting the values of national unity, environmental consciousness, and inclusive border development. The celebration stood as a beacon of faith and commitment to preserving the unique identity and sanctity of the trans-Himalayan region.