Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Yatra (Nagpur to Leh & Ladakh) 2017–18
Theme: Peace, Unity, and Spiritual Heritage of India
The Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Yatra (2017–18) was organized as a national integration and spiritual awareness journey from Nagpur to Leh and Ladakh, to honor the life, teachings, and contributions of Kushak Bakula Rinpoche, one of India’s most revered Buddhist leaders and statesmen.
The Yatra symbolized India’s commitment to unity in diversity, cultural harmony, and spiritual enlightenment, tracing the deep roots of compassion, service, and peace that connect the plains of central India with the mountains of the Himalayas.
About Kushak Bakula Rinpoche
Kushak Bakula Rinpoche (1917–2003) was a respected Buddhist monk, statesman, and education reformer from Ladakh. Known as the “Architect of Modern Ladakh,” he dedicated his life to education, equality, and spiritual progress.
He represented India as an ambassador to Mongolia and played a vital role in spreading India’s message of peace and Buddhism globally.
He worked for the upliftment of Ladakh’s people, promoting education, healthcare, and cultural preservation.
His life continues to inspire people to work for national integration and human welfare.
Objectives of the Yatra
To commemorate the centenary of Kushak Bakula Rinpoche’s birth and honor his legacy of peace and service.
To promote national integration by connecting the spiritual heritage of central India (Nagpur) with the northern frontiers (Leh & Ladakh).
To spread awareness about Buddhist values of compassion, tolerance, and selfless service.
To encourage intercultural understanding, youth participation, and environmental consciousness along the route of the Yatra.
Highlights of the Yatra
The journey from Nagpur to Leh & Ladakh covered multiple states, engaging communities through spiritual discourses, cultural exchanges, and peace dialogues.
Youth delegations, monks, and social workers participated, promoting the ideals of unity, discipline, and respect for diversity.
Environmental awareness and heritage preservation programs were organized in Ladakh, emphasizing the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems and ancient traditions.
The Yatra concluded with a peace assembly in Leh, celebrating the life and message of Rinpoche through prayers, cultural performances, and community service.
Conclusion
The Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Yatra (2017–18) was more than a journey — it was a pilgrimage of peace, learning, and national solidarity. By retracing the spiritual and cultural connections between Nagpur and Leh-Ladakh, the Yatra reaffirmed India’s timeless message of unity, compassion, and mutual respect.
It served as a reminder that the strength of a nation lies not only in its progress but also in its values, spirituality, and cultural togetherness — the very ideals embodied by Kushak Bakula Rinpoche.