Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the teachings of Gautama Buddha remain as relevant today as they were 2,500 years ago, while addressing a gathering in Leh on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.
The Minister described this year’s celebration as both a religious and historical moment, marking the return of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha to Ladakh after a gap of 75 years.
Shah noted that when the relics were last brought to the region decades ago, limited connectivity and infrastructure meant only a few people could have access to them.
Shah highlighted that the current occasion has allowed a large number of people from Leh and Kargil, along with followers of different faiths, to gather for darshan. He pointed out the unique significance of Buddha Purnima, noting that Lord Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and passed away on the same day, making it a rare event in spiritual history.
The Minister also referred to the Dalai Lama, who has often described Ladakh as a land of spiritual enlightenment with a special place in Buddhist history.
According to Shah, Ladakh has historically been a source of hope for Buddhism during difficult times and a centre for spreading the message of peace and coexistence during stable periods.
The Minister emphasised that the region’s position along the ancient Silk Route made it a hub not only for trade but also for meditation and cultural exchange. He added that Ladakh continues to house significant Buddhist relics and remains a major pilgrimage destination for followers from around the world.
Concluding his address, Shah reiterated that the message delivered by Lord Buddha after attaining enlightenment continues to hold relevance in the modern world.
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