Leh, Sept 05: The World Peace Conference 2025 drew to a close on Friday with a valedictory ceremony at the Shanti Stupa in Leh, where prayers, addresses, and cultural performances marked the culmination of the three-day deliberations. Though the event was initially planned in the open with the stupa as the backdrop, heavy rainfall across Ladakh forced the ceremony indoors.
The gathering was addressed by Abhijeet Haldar, Director General of IBC, New Delhi, who delivered the keynote valedictory speech. The occasion was also blessed by Khenzur Rinpoche Lobzang Tsetan and attended by dignitaries including Ghulam Mehdi, Executive Councillor of LAHDC Leh, Ambassador Dr. Deepak Vohra, Dr. P.R. Trivedi, Dr. Vijay Dhasmana, Dr. Markandey Rai, C. Phuntsog, and an international delegation of peace advocates.
The ceremony opened with prayers for global peace led by Most Venerable Gyomo Nakamura in the Japanese tradition, followed by offerings from monks and members of the All Ladakh Gonpa Association. The collective prayers symbolized interfaith harmony and unity of purpose, echoing the spirit of the conference.
In his address, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder and President of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, expressed gratitude to the participants for their commitment to peace-building. Presenting the official conference report, he underscored the urgency of compassion, dialogue, and cooperation as guiding principles for humanity. The report outlined deliberations that called for interfaith collaboration, global solidarity, and sustainable peace initiatives.
Messages from His Holiness the Dalai Lama and ABCP President Khenaur Khambo Gabju Demberel Choijamts, read by Sonam Wangchuk Shakspo, infused the gathering with inspiration. A highlight of the evening was the reading of the Ladakh Peace Declaration by Tsering Samphel, which set the tone for collective action beyond the conclave.
The cultural segment added a devotional note to the solemn proceedings. Ladakhi Artists Tundup Dorjey Stakmo and Padma Dolker, along with their troupe, performed soulful songs that resonated with the audience. The evening concluded with a flute recital by Japanese artist Okano Hiroki, whose serene notes left the participants in reflective silence.
The valedictory brought the conference to a close with an atmosphere of renewed resolve. Delegates departed with the Ladakh Peace Declaration in hand and a shared commitment to foster dialogue and cooperation in a world in need of healing.
