Holy Buddha relics return to Leh After Zanskar Visit

The Holy Buddha relics returned to Leh on Tuesday after completing a visit to Zanskar and have been placed at the Dharma Centre for public viewing and prayers, according to a statement issued by the Ladakh administration. The relics will remain in Leh for two days before departing for Delhi on May 15, the statement said. According to the administration, around 1,700 monks and nuns gathered at the Dharma Centre for prayers, chants and rituals in the presence of the relics. Monastic communities from different parts of Ladakh participated in the ceremonies and offered prayers for peace and well-being. The administration said the veneration ceremony was conducted under security supervision to facilitate orderly public access to the relics. Large numbers of devotees also gathered outside the Dharma Centre throughout the day to seek blessings and view the relics, the statement added. The administration said visitor numbers have continued to rise as the relics remain in Leh for the final two days of their stay.