Leh, May 15 : Leh Main Market resonated with folk melodies, traditional dances and cultural performances on Wednesday evening as the concluding cultural programme organised in connection with the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha brought days of spiritual observance and public celebrations in Ladakh to a vibrant close.
The cultural evening, organised by the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the North Zone Cultural Centre, was held under the theme “Peace Beyond Borders” to commemorate the 2569th Vesak Purnima.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents, visitors and cultural enthusiasts, with performances reflecting the diversity of Ladakh’s artistic and folk traditions alongside Tibetan and Himalayan cultural influences.
Hosts Paldan Wanla and Yountan Angmo opened the evening by highlighting the spiritual significance of the Holy Relics exposition and the cultural ethos underpinning the celebrations. The event commenced with Lharna, an auspicious traditional musical offering performed in reverence to deities.
Artists from Sindhu Sargam Society presented the traditional Shondol dance, widely associated with Ladakh’s royal heritage and ceremonial traditions. Students of SOS TCV Leh followed with an energetic Lion Dance performance symbolising courage, strength and Tibetan cultural identity.
Among the highlights of the evening was the presentation of Mentok Stanmo, or the Flower Dance, traditionally performed during the spring season in the Bodh-Kharbu, Wakha and Mulbekh regions of Kargil district. Artists from Changthang also showcased the vibrant Jabro dance in traditional Kopong attire, reflecting the distinct cultural life of the nomadic communities of the region.
The programme further featured folk performances by Sindhu Sargam Society and cultural presentations from Changthang, followed by a ghazal performance by the Purgi Cultural Group that added a lyrical dimension to the evening’s celebrations.
Veteran folk artists including Tundup Dorjay Stakmo, Angchuk Dorjay Wanla, Tsering Dorjay, Chamba Chosphel, Sonam Gyalson and Konchok Lobzang performed traditional folk melodies, while Tsewang Nurboo rendered Junglu, one of Ladakh’s enduring folk songs.
The celebrations concluded with a performance by Da-Shugs Band, whose contemporary musical presentation drew enthusiastic applause and brought the cultural festivities marking the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha to a close.
