Leh, June 24, 2025: The 29th Sindhu Darshan Utsav commenced with profound spiritual devotion and patriotic enthusiasm at Sindhu Ghat in Leh, celebrating India’s rich civilisational legacy, cultural diversity, and unity. The three-day festival, organized by the Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti, is being held from June 23 to 26, drawing thousands of pilgrims and cultural troupes from across the nation.
A highlight of the festival was the inauguration of a Buddha statue at Shey Manla, near Sindhu Ghat, by His Holiness the Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche on June 24. The spiritually significant ceremony was attended by revered monk His Eminence Chokyong Palga Rinpoche, Hon’ble Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson, Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh Dr. Pawan Kotwal, DGP Sh. S.D. Singh Jamwal, and Chief Patron of the Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti, Shri Indresh Kumar, among other dignitaries.
Also present were DC/CEO Leh Shri Romil Singh Donk, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ladakh Prof. Saket Kushwaha, Director of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa Dr. Gurmet, CRO Leh, President of the Yatra Samiti Shri Murli Das, Vice President/MLA Sh. Vikram Randhawa, along with district officials, monks, and prominent members of the community.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from yatris and cultural groups representing various Indian states, creating a vibrant atmosphere of inclusivity and celebration.
In his address, Hon’ble CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson welcomed all guests and pilgrims, stressing the cultural and spiritual importance of the Sindhu (Indus) River, which has nurtured Indian civilisation for millennia.
“Ladakh is not only India’s geographical crown but also its spiritual heart. The Sindhu flows through this land, carrying the essence of our shared civilisational values,” he said.
He also called for collective efforts to preserve the sanctity of the Sindhu River, urging citizens to protect Ladakh’s ecological and spiritual heritage. Referring to Demjok, a remote border village, he spoke of its potential for sustainable tourism, enabled by new infrastructure and road connectivity.
Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal, in his speech, appreciated the growing national and spiritual significance of Ladakh, asserting that events like the Sindhu Darshan Utsav are vital for promoting national unity and showcasing Ladakh’s cultural and ecological wealth. He also emphasized the importance of balancing tourism with environmental sustainability.
Shri Indresh Kumar, Chief Patron of the Yatra Samiti, spoke passionately on the symbolic power of the Sindhu River as a unifier of India’s diverse traditions, calling it a “living embodiment of the nation’s unity and strength.”
The day also featured cultural performances on the riverbanks, with artists in traditional attire showcasing folk music, dance, and rituals from various Indian states, reflecting India’s vibrant diversity and collective heritage.
Mementos were presented to dignitaries and guests as a token of gratitude, while pilgrims offered prayers and participated in the day’s rituals with great devotion.
The 29th edition of Sindhu Darshan Utsav continues to reaffirm India’s timeless spiritual traditions and Ladakh’s pivotal role in nurturing the nation’s cultural and ecological consciousness.
