More than 100 participants attend academic and cultural sessions
Leh, Jun 10: A two-day seminar titled “Introduction to Buddhism and Its Application” was held on 5th and 6th June 2025 at Diskit Gonpa, Nubra, in the Union Territory of Ladakh. The event was jointly organized by the Department of Bhot Bauddh Darshan and the Department of Sampradaya Shastra of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (Deemed to be University), Leh.
The seminar opened with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by the President of the Ldumra Youth Buddhist Association, who also chaired the inaugural session. Dr. Lobsang Tsultrim Bhutia welcomed participants and dignitaries, followed by an overview of the seminar presented by Geshe Drakpa Kalsang. Mrs. Kunsang Dolma, President of the Ldumra Women’s Association, also addressed the gathering. Mementos were presented to the guests, and keynote speeches were delivered by respected monks from various monasteries, including Gen Thuptan Chodrak of Diskit Monastery. Shri Tundup Namgyal, the Chief Guest and President of the Ldumra Youth Buddhist Association, also spoke on the importance of Buddhist values in present-day life.
More than 100 participants, including students and teachers from Lamdon schools, government schools, and local residents, attended the seminar. The first day featured two academic sessions covering topics such as the Wheel of Existence, the Four Immeasurables, environmental concerns, Dharma practice, and the role of youth in spreading Buddhism. Presentations were followed by interactive question-and-answer sessions, emphasizing community engagement.
On the second day, discussions continued with talks on Interdependent Origination, compassion, the role of Buddhism in society, the Four Noble Truths, and the practice of taking refuge. Scholars and students presented papers, and the morning session ended with a summary of all discussions by Geshe Lobsang Tsultrim.
The seminar concluded with a closing ceremony that featured reflections by participants and a cultural performance by the Ldumra Women’s Association. Dedication prayers marked the end of the event.
This seminar successfully fostered dialogue on Buddhist philosophy and its application in daily life. The active involvement of scholars, students, and local residents underscored the ongoing relevance of Buddhism in today’s world.
