A statue honouring the life and contributions of the revered 19th Kushok Gyalsras Bakula Rinpochey was unveiled at Bakula Rinpoche Memorial Park in Leh on May 19, 2025, marking his 108th birthday. Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju presided over the event. With this unveiling, the state aims to recognise Rinpoche's diverse legacy as a spiritual guide, diplomat, and supporter of Ladakh's advancement.
Ngawang Lobzang Thupstan Chognor, who was born on May 19, 1918, into the Matho royal dynasty in Ladakh, was identified early on as the 19th reincarnation of Arhat Bakula, one of the first pupils of Buddha. He gained extensive spiritual and intellectual knowledge from his early schooling at the Drepung Monastic University in Lhasa. In addition to his monastery responsibilities, Rinpoche was instrumental in the development of contemporary Ladakh. Not only was he India's ambassador to Mongolia and a member of parliament, he also played a significant role in the revival of Buddhism in both Russia and Mongolia. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1988 for his work for social welfare, education, and intercommunal harmony.
Rinpoche's lasting influence on Ladakh is demonstrated by the Bakula Rinpoche Memorial Park, which is located close to the Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh. The park's tranquil setting and the recently unveiled statue honour his contributions to the sociopolitical and spiritual fabric of the area while providing a place for introspection and motivation. The fact that local residents, monks, and dignitaries attended the inauguration event demonstrated how widely Rinpoche's life and work are respected and admired.
The statue's unveiling affirms Ladakh's rich cultural and spiritual tradition while also paying tribute to Rinpoche's legacy. Rinpoche personified the ideals and goals of the Ladakhi people by skilfully fusing spiritual knowledge with civic duty. Future generations are inspired to uphold the values of compassion, service, and harmony that Rinpoche promoted throughout his life by the memorial.
A significant tribute to the 19th Kushok Gyalsras Bakula Rinpochey's priceless services to Ladakh and beyond is the erection of his statue at Bakula Rinpoche Memorial Park. It acts as a permanent remembrance of a life devoted to societal advancement, spiritual enlightenment, and human welfare.
