Documentary on 19th Arhat Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Screened at CIBS Leh, Revisiting the Legacy of Ladakh’s Visionary Monk and Statesman

Leh, May 7, 2026: In a significant tribute to one of Ladakh’s most revered spiritual and political leaders, a special screening of the documentary “Kushok Bakula Rinpoche: The Extraordinary Story of an Extraordinary Monk” was held today at the Main Auditorium of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Leh. The programme brought together monks, scholars, students, officials and members of the public to reflect upon the enduring legacy of the 19th Arhat Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, whose life and work left a lasting imprint on Ladakh, India and the wider Buddhist world.

Present on the occasion were International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) General Secretary Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, Ven. Thupstan Paldan, noted scholar from Ladakh and Member of Sahitya Akademi, Shri Sonam Wangchuk, Secretary to the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, Dr. Portia Conrad, along with members of the IBC team, Buddhist scholars, monks and students.

Delivering the welcome address, IBC General Secretary Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche spoke about the importance of showcasing the documentary in Ladakh, describing Kushok Bakula Rinpoche as a symbol of Ladakh whose vision and contributions continue to guide generations.

Organised under the aegis of the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the International Buddhist Confederation, the programme revisited the extraordinary journey of the 19th Arhat Kushok Bakula Rinpoche as a Buddhist master, social reformer, diplomat and statesman.

Produced by Rishi Suri and directed by Hindol Sengupta, the documentary traced Rinpoche’s remarkable life through rare archival photographs, historical footage and personal narratives. The film highlighted his immense contribution towards preserving the cultural and spiritual identity of Ladakh during a period of profound political and social transition. It also shed light on his pivotal role in the revival of Buddhism in Mongolia, promotion of interfaith harmony, educational advancement and strengthening India’s cultural diplomacy abroad.

The documentary further portrayed Rinpoche as a true people’s leader who consistently worked for the welfare and aspirations of the people of Ladakh. It reflected upon his historic role as one of the earliest leaders to strongly advocate for Ladakh’s integration with India and his continued efforts towards securing Union Territory status and constitutional safeguards for the region. His contributions towards national security, social reform and educational empowerment were also prominently highlighted.

The screening was followed by an engaging discussion between Shri Sonam Wangchuk, Secretary to the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, and Ven. Thupstan Paldan. During the interaction, the speakers emphasised the importance of encouraging younger generations to study and understand the life and teachings of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche.

Ven. Thupstan Paldan recalled his travels to Tibet and spoke about the immense reverence accorded to Rinpoche wherever he went. He shared detailed insights into Rinpoche’s life journey and underlined his special emphasis on education and social upliftment in Ladakh.

Speaking on Rinpoche’s political and diplomatic contributions, Shri Sonam Wangchuk highlighted his role in Ladakh’s developmental journey, particularly his advocacy for Union Territory status, Scheduled Tribe status and issues concerning national security. He also spoke about Rinpoche’s significant role in bringing the sacred Piprahwa relics to Ladakh for the first time in 1950. In 1993, Rinpoche also facilitated the historic journey of the relics to Mongolia, a landmark moment as the relics had never previously been permitted to travel outside India. He further elaborated on Rinpoche’s contributions in Mongolia and his efforts in strengthening India-Mongolia relations.

On the occasion, Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche presented mementoes to the distinguished guests. A short video message by director Hindol Sengupta was also screened, in which he shared his experience of documenting the life and legacy of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche.

The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by the Deputy Registrar of CIBS Leh.