dalai-lama-lays-foundation-stone-for-new-monastery-in-ladakh

Religious enthusiasm and waves of joy pervaded in Ladakh today as the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama ceremonially laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of Chowkhang Vihara in Leh, Ladakh today. The site is set to become a renewed spiritual centre rooted in the timeless values of wisdom and compassion. Completion of the project is expected within five years.

The event, a moment of profound spiritual significance for the region, drew a large gathering of religious leaders, local dignitaries, and community members.Upon his arrival at the Chowkhang Vihara, the Dalai Lama was received by the President of Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), Chering Dorjay Lakruk, along with other key members of LBA, the LBA youth wing and residents.

 

The reception featured traditional Ladakhi music and ceremonial offering of Khattaks, symbolising a warm welcome. The ceremony was attended by a list of distinguished guests, including Chief Executive Councillor Tashi Gyalson, Executive Councillors of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, and other prominent figures from across Ladakh.

 

Following the ceremony, the Dalai Lama extended his visit to the Dharma Centre at Choglamsar, where he delivered a special address to those present, further blessing the community with his compassionate teachings. At the Chowkhang Vihara, the 14th Dalai Lama was greeted by Ladakh Buddhist Association president Chering Dorjay Lakruk. The reception featured traditional Ladakhi music and ceremonial offerings of khattaks.

 

“Let this not be a place for only ritual prayers and idle talk but a centre for deep study anddiscussionon Buddhist philosophy, a wellspring of wisdom for generations,” theTibetan spiritual leader said after establishing the foundation.Lakruk called the occasiona historic moment for the region. He said a request had been made to his holiness to come for the event some three months past.

“This is possibly the greatest blessing we could receive. The whole of Ladakh is touched by auspicious winds today,” he said.

 

The temple, constructed in 1957, is up for reconstruction after developing cracks and other damage due to floods.The Dalai Lama reached Leh on July 12 on a month-long tour of the region.