Leh, Mar 20: The Union Territory administration of Ladakh has intensified preparations for the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Tathagata Buddha, with the second UT-Level Coordination Committee meeting held in Leh under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra.
The high-level meeting, convened at the Conference Hall of the Hill Council, reviewed logistical arrangements and execution plans for the exposition scheduled during the first fortnight of May 2026. The event, permitted by the Ministry of Culture from May 1 to May 14, is expected to draw religious leaders, scholars, and visitors from across India and abroad.
Administrative Secretary, Tourism, Sanjit Rodrigues, presented a detailed outline of the programme, highlighting a series of ceremonial and cultural engagements. These include inaugural and closing functions, seminars, interfaith dialogue sessions, meditation and yoga programmes, Buddhist chanting, and curated cultural exhibitions at prominent venues such as CIBS, Dharma Centre, MIMC, Leh Palace, and the Leh Main Market.
During the deliberations, the Chief Secretary underscored the urgency of finalising the list of dignitaries, including Rinpoches from various Buddhist traditions, along with representatives of the Ladakh Buddhist Association and the Ladakh Gompa Association. These delegations are expected to receive the Holy Relics both in Delhi and upon their arrival at Leh Airport.
He further informed that a proposal has been submitted to extend the exposition to Zanskar between May 10 and May 12, subject to approval from the Ministry of Culture, thereby expanding access for devotees in remote regions.
A review of infrastructure preparedness also featured prominently, with emphasis laid on the timely readiness of a shatterproof casket for the relics. Arrangements for the principal observance on May 1, coinciding with the 2569th Buddha Purnima, were discussed in detail. The exhibition site at Jivetsal, designated for public viewing of the relics, is being developed to manage large gatherings.
The administration is also pursuing diplomatic outreach. The Lieutenant Governor has communicated with Union Ministries to facilitate the participation of ambassadors from Buddhist-majority nations. In addition, an official website for the exposition is set to be launched to enhance public access to information and updates.
To ensure orderly conduct, directions were issued for comprehensive visitor management, including designated areas for photography and devotional practices. The Culture Department has been tasked with preparing a day-wise schedule of cultural programmes, including performances by international troupes in coordination with the International Buddhist Confederation.
The Chief Secretary called for coordinated efforts among all stakeholders, including religious bodies and cultural organisations, to ensure seamless execution. He observed that the exposition presents an avenue to position Ladakh as a destination for spiritual and cultural tourism.
Further, instructions were issued to convene a separate consultation with hotel associations, tour operators, and tourism stakeholders to facilitate accommodation, travel logistics, and broader outreach.
The programme will also feature a range of associated activities, including interfaith harmony dialogues, medical camps, exhibitions, live screenings, an ice hockey match, Chöd performances, and mass Buddhist chanting sessions.
The meeting was attended by councillors from Zanskar, senior officials of the UT administration, police and paramilitary representatives, eminent Rinpoches, and members of key religious and cultural organisations.
