MIMC Hosts International Conference on Himalayan Buddhism during Sacred Relics Exposition
Leh, May 2026: The Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), successfully hosted an International Conference on the theme “Contribution of Himalayan Buddhism to the Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of India and Beyond” on the auspicious occasion of the 2569th Vaishakha Buddha Purnima.
The conference was held at the Mahabodhi Ozen Satori House (MOSH) within the MIMC campus and brought together eminent scholars, spiritual leaders, policymakers, and practitioners from across India and abroad, creating a vibrant platform for dialogue, reflection, and shared spiritual inquiry.
Prior to the inaugural session, the Hon’ble Chief Guest Shri Pema Khandu and Guest of Honour His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche were warmly received by Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena at his residence, reflecting the spirit of hospitality and reverence that marked the occasion.
The inaugural session commenced with ceremonial lamp lighting, accompanied by devotional chants by young monks and nuns of MIMC, symbolising the illumination of wisdom and the continuity of the Buddha’s teachings.
The conference was graced by Shri Pema Khandu as the Chief Guest, while His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche attended as the Guest of Honour. Among the distinguished dignitaries present were Shri S. P. Singh Baghel, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying; Shri Jaiveer Singh, Hon’ble Minister for Culture and Tourism, Uttar Pradesh; Venerable Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, Secretary General of IBC; Shri Abhijeet Haldar, Director General of IBC; Shri Chering Dorjey Lakruk, President, Ladakh Buddhist Association; Ven. Dorjey Stanzin, President, Ladakh Gonpa Association; along with senior officials of the UT Administration, including Shri Sanjit Rodrigues and Ms. Bhanu Prabha, IAS.
In his address, Shri Pema Khandu appreciated the role of MIMC in preserving and promoting Buddhist values and described the conference as a historic initiative reconnecting Himalayan regions through shared spiritual heritage. He highlighted the importance of the Buddha’s teachings of compassion and non-violence in shaping a peaceful global future.
Guest of Honour His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche emphasized the urgent need to preserve Himalayan Buddhist traditions and encouraged greater unity among Himalayan regions, along with active engagement of youth and the use of modern platforms to carry forward the teachings.
Speakers reflected on the historical journey of Buddha Dhamma, tracing its spread from India to various parts of Asia through the efforts of great masters such as Padmasambhava and Shantarakshita. The discussions underscored that the gathering was not merely academic but a reaffirmation of living traditions that continue to guide humanity.
A significant highlight of the occasion was the release of the book “The Living Legacy of the Tathagata,” reflecting Ladakh’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage and commitment to preserving the Buddha’s teachings.
In his concluding remarks, Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena described the occasion as a historic and deeply meaningful moment for Ladakh. He noted that the ongoing Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of the Buddha has drawn thousands of devotees and described the conference as a rare confluence of faith and scholarship, reconnecting the world with the living legacy of Buddhism preserved in the Himalayan region.
The conference concluded with a vibrant cultural programme presented by students of Mahabodhi Residential School and SOS TCV Ladakh, followed by fellowship over high tea.
As the Sacred Relic Exposition continues, MIMC remains at the heart of this global spiritual gathering, serving as a platform for dialogue, reflection, and the promotion of compassion, mindfulness, and universal harmony.
