Leh, Apr 27: In a solemn expression of collective grief, the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre on Sunday held a prayer ceremony to honour Col. Sonam Wangchuk and Ambassador P. Stobdan, whose passing earlier this month has left a deep void across Ladakh.
The ceremony, conducted at the MIMC campus, was led by Bhikkhu Sanghasena and attended by staff, students, and members of the Devachan community. The gathering observed prayers in a reflective atmosphere, with tributes focusing on the lives and public service of the two figures.
Describing them as “luminous pillars of Ladakh,” Bhikkhu Sanghasena said that although their careers took different directions—one in military service and the other in diplomacy—their shared commitment to the nation and their deep connection to Ladakh defined their legacy.
Col. Sonam Wangchuk, a Maha Vir Chakra awardee and retired Indian Army officer, was remembered for his distinguished service and continued engagement with the youth of Ladakh after retirement. Speakers noted that his life stood as an example of discipline, humility, and dedication to national duty.
Ambassador P. Stobdan, a respected diplomat and scholar, was recalled for his contribution to India’s foreign policy and his work in advancing understanding of Himalayan geopolitics. His efforts to articulate Ladakh’s identity and concerns at national and international forums were widely acknowledged during the ceremony.
On the occasion, Bhikkhu Sanghasena announced that two Buddha statues would be installed in their memory at the Buddha Park for World Peace, as part of an ongoing initiative to establish 1,000 such statues within the meditation centre.
The ceremony also included a devotional hymn by Phonsok Ladakhi, which added a contemplative tone to the proceedings.
The gathering concluded with prayers for the departed and a collective resolve among participants to carry forward the values exemplified by the two figures—service, wisdom, and compassion.
