Pachen Charasa
The absence of an invitation to the Merchant Association at the celebration of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s birthday has raised troubling questions about inclusiveness on an occasion that should symbolize compassion, equality and unity. Such a sacred celebration belongs to every Buddhist and every Ladakhi who reveres the teachings of His Holiness.
Against this backdrop, the recent perception that organizational differences following the debate over the Apex Body and KDA bandh have overshadowed the spirit of inclusiveness is deeply unfortunate. When a religious event appears influenced by differing public positions, it risks undermining the very Buddhist values it seeks to honour.
As President of the Ladakh Buddhist Association, Chering Dorjey Lakrook holds a position that demands impartiality. He represents the wider Buddhist community, not any particular faction or viewpoint. Leadership inspired by the teachings of His Holiness requires bringing people together despite disagreements, not creating the perception of exclusion.
The greatest tribute to His Holiness is not the scale of a celebration but the practice of his teachings. Compassion must be inclusive, respect must be universal, and religious institutions must remain above organizational rivalries. Only then can they truly reflect the ideals that His Holiness has dedicated his life to promoting.
