Leh: In a momentous event marking the 108th birth anniversary of the revered 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche—widely regarded as the Architect of Modern Ladakh—the Hon’ble Union Minister of Minority and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, unveiled a statue in his honour at the Bakula Rinpoche Memorial Park in Leh. He was joined by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), and the Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson.
To commemorate the occasion, 108 apple saplings were planted, symbolizing the 108th birth anniversary of the visionary spiritual and political leader. Additionally, a book titled “Kushok Bakula Rinpoche – Architect of Modern Ladakh: Life and Times” authored by Sonam Wangchuk Shakspo, was released by the dignitaries.
In his address, LG Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) paid rich tributes to Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, recalling his pivotal role in shaping Ladakh’s geography, history, culture, and education. Highlighting his contributions during the First Kashmir War, the LG stated that the revered monk-politician safeguarded Ladakh’s interests both on the battlefield and in Parliament. He also noted that Rinpoche’s influence extended beyond Ladakh, especially through his appointment as India’s Ambassador to Mongolia and his role in reviving Buddhism there, for which he was conferred the Padma Bhushan in 1988.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, expressing deep reverence, called it a “cherished moment” to unveil the statue of such a divine incarnation. Recalling his visit to Mongolia with the relics of Lord Buddha, he emphasized Rinpoche’s efforts in rekindling Buddhism in the region. Highlighting government initiatives, he spoke about the Buddhist Development Plan, under which funds will be allocated for infrastructure in monasteries, including fitness and sports facilities for monks.
CEC Advocate Tashi Gyalson credited Kushok Bakula Rinpoche for achieving Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the people of Ladakh and establishing the Autonomous Hill Development Council. He announced that approximately ₹5 crore has been invested in developing the memorial park, with plans underway to establish a Learning Centre at the site.
The Ambassador of Mongolia to India, H.E. Ganbold Dambajav, read out a heartfelt message from the President of Mongolia, Mr Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, acknowledging Rinpoche’s invaluable contributions to the Mongolian people.
The event also featured cultural performances by the Women’s Association of Spituk village, and ceremonial prayers from respected religious figures including His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche, His Eminence Urgyan Rinpoche, and Abbot Geshe Lobzang Wangchuk, among other monks and dignitaries.
The event began with a welcome address by Ven Thupstan Paldan, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Spituk village Nambardar, Jigmet Angchuk.
