The 9th edition of the Ladakh dPal rNgam Duston was celebrated with grandeur and cultural fervour in Leh on August 5. Organised under the aegis of 6th Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, the festival aimed to honour Ladakh’s rich cultural legacy and historical identity.

The day-long celebration commenced at the historic Leh Palace with traditional rituals and vibrant cultural performances and culminated in a musical evening at the NDS Stadium.

This year’s central theme, “Compassion”, reflected the teachings of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, whose 90th birth anniversary was commemorated through the declaration of July as the Month of Compassion by the Council.

Addressing the gathering, CEC, LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson said the celebration aims to honour and relive the memories of Ladakh’s rich history and cultural heritage. “The celebration at Leh Palace offers us a chance to reflect on the journey of Ladakh — its challenges and achievements — and to remember all those who have contributed to its progress,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort in working towards a better future for Ladakh.

Highlights of the day included a traditional horse race by villagers from Phobrang, Changthang at the Polo Ground and a Shondol dance performance by 90 artists in honour of His Holiness’ birthday.

The evening programme featured a musical play on the life of the Dalai Lama, followed by a powerful theatrical production titled “bDud aDul”, directed by Mipham Otsal, Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee and Director of the Ladakh Theatre Organisation. The play, themed on the path of compassion, portrayed the journey of the Buddha in his quest for enlightenment and the transformative impact of his teachings on two key characters — Sujata, who offers him nourishment during his journey, and Angulimala, a ruthless killer who ultimately renounces violence and becomes a devoted follower of the Buddha.

Welcoming the guests, Deputy Commissioner Leh, Romil Singh Donk, described the festival as a “living bridge” between Ladakh’s past and future. He highlighted environmental initiatives, including the Indus River Clean-up Drive, and underscored the importance of preserving Ladakh’s ecological, cultural, and moral values.

The CEC also reviewed the achievements of the 6th LAHDC Council, including the free cervical cancer vaccination drive, 33% reservation for women, and the upcoming Indus Cleanliness Drive scheduled for August 12.

A documentary on the Month of Compassion was screened, showcasing various Council-led initiatives throughout July.

The audience also witnessed the formal launch of three major initiatives — the revival of Ladakh’s traditional knowledge (Norskal), a documentary on the achievements of the 6th LAHDC Leh, and the digitalisation of grameen homestays, a collaboration between LAHDC Leh, Firgun Society, and the Department of Tourism aimed at sustainable and community-led tourism development.

The prestigious Ladakh dPal-rNgam Award 2025 was conferred upon Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, for his spiritual contributions and humanitarian efforts. In his address, he paid tribute to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and reflected on the journey of Ladakh as a Union Territory and the democratic legacy of LAHDC Leh.

In his spiritually grounded and emotionally resonant address, Bhikkhu Sanghasena expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Ladakh, the Mahabodhi family, and supporters from across India and abroad. He extended special thanks to CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson and the LAHDC Leh for their continued support.

He acknowledged that the formation of Ladakh as a Union Territory has opened new avenues for development and progress, while also honouring the sacrifices made by countless individuals to achieve UT status. Reflecting on the region’s democratic journey, he described LAHDC Leh as a powerful institution born of struggle, vision, and the collective will of the people.

Urging the youth to safeguard this legacy, he emphasized that the autonomy and powers enjoyed today were hard-earnedand must be preserved with responsibility and commitment.

He concluded by dedicating the award to the people of Ladakh, the Mahabodhi family, and to all those who follow the path of compassion, unity, and inner development.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Lobzang Tsewang for his longstanding work in translating the teachings of His Holiness and making them accessible to the wider public. A Special Appreciation Award was given to internationally renowned author and activist Madam Helena Norberg-Hodge for her decades-long contribution to cultural and environmental conservation in Ladakh. The award was received on her behalf by Ishey Tundup, Director of LEDeG.

Special Awards were presented to  Moses Kunzang (KAS) for his service in administration and youth development, Thupstan Shanfan for preserving traditional knowledge and wisdom, Ishey Yangzom for promoting tourism through tours and travel,Ghulam Mustafa and Ghulam Mohiuddin Abdu for their contributions to the hospitality sector and  Ghulam Musa for his dedicated public service.

The evening concluded with folk music and traditional costume showcases, followed by contemporary music and dance performances, culminating in a live performance by Indian Idol and Bollywood singer Rito Riba, whose appearance was met with enthusiastic applause.

The 9th Ladakh dPal rNgam Duston concluded on a note of celebration and reflection, reaffirming Ladakh’s enduring unity, cultural pride, and the spirit of compassion that continues to guide its people.