The Tashi Rabgias Memorial Trust, U.T. Leh, Ladakh, commemorated the 6th death anniversary of the eminent scholar, late Tashi Rabgias, on October 28. Members of the Trust paid heartfelt homage to the scholar, recalling his invaluable contributions to Ladakh’s art, literature, language, and culture.

On the occasion, members also paid tribute to the martyrs of September 24, 2025, honoring their sacrifice and dedication.

During his lifetime, Tashi Rabgias authored numerous books and academic papers that shed light on the art, culture, and history of Ladakh. His profound scholarship earned him several national and regional accolades. Among his most notable works are:

Natir Puja (1961) — a play translated from English into Bhoti;
History of Ladakh from Early Times to 1947 (Bhoti, 1st ed. 1984, 2nd ed. 2006);
Ancient Futures— translated from English into Bhoti;
Collection of 127 Ladakhi Folk Songs (1970, J&K Cultural Academy);
Ladakh: Tradition and Change (2004, collection of English essays);
Jiksten Kuntoo Gawey Lu (2007, a collection of 115 original Bhoti songs);
Zosgar Tuski Melong (2003, a play on wildlife conservation);
Mangski Ringluks (2003, a play on democracy); and
Sustainable Spirituality in Buddhism (2009).

He also played a pivotal role in developing Bhoti language textbooks for Ladakh’s schools. His monumental work, History of Ladakh, was later translated into English by his son, Sonam Gyatso, and launched in September 2018.

Over the years, Tashi Rabgias received numerous awards in recognition of his scholarly and cultural contributions, including:

Robe of Honour (1971)
Sahitya Akademi Bhasha Samman (1998)
Zings-tak Award by LBA Youth Wing, presented by H.H. the Dalai Lama (1999)
Dogra Rattan (2007)
State Award (2008)
Lifetime Achievement Award at the International Festival of Buddhist Heritage of Ladakh (2014)
sPalnam Tuston Award from LAHDC Leh (2017)
Special honour by the International Association for Ladakh Studies (2019)
U.T. Ladakh State Award on Republic Day (2022)

The Trust members, keeping in view the tragic incident of September 24, 2025, decided to observe the day in a solemn manner rather than holding the usual commemorative celebrations.

Through his writings, teachings, and tireless efforts, Tashi Rabgias continues to inspire generations across Ladakh — reminding them of the region’s rich cultural legacy and the importance of preserving it for the future.