In a show of solidarity with the victims of the recent earthquake in Tibet, the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) Youth Wing and Sonamling Tibetan Settlement organized a candlelight vigil in Leh on January 8.

The march began at Leh Gate and culminaed at Chowkhang Vihara, where hundreds of people gathered to pray for the earthquake victims. The 6.8-magnitude quake, which struck on January 7, had its epicenter in Tingri, a rural county about 80 km (50 miles) north of Mount Everest, with a population of around 60,000 people. The tremors also shook buildings in neighboring Nepal, Bhutan, and India.

The quake impacted the Shigatse region of Tibet, home to approximately 800,000 people. Shigatse city, the administrative center of the region, holds significant cultural importance as the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, a key figure in Tibetan Buddhism.

Expressing his condolences, LBA President Chering Dorje Lakruk said, “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy, which has claimed hundreds of lives and left many injured. The affected region, near Mount Everest, is facing even greater challenges due to the harsh cold weather.” He urged everyone to pray for the victims.

Dhondup Tashi, Chief Representative Officer of Sonamling Tibetan Settlement, shared his support: “We stand in solidarity with our Tibetan brothers and sisters in these difficult times. We pray for the deceased and for the quick recovery of all those facing hardships.”

He also expressed gratitude to the people of Ladakh for their unwavering support.

Jigmet Rafstan, President of the LBA Youth Wing, stated that the candlelight march and prayer session at Chowkhang Vihara were organized in support of those affected by the devastating earthquake.

The event concluded with a special prayer session at Chowkhang Vihara, with participation from monks, locals, and the Tibetan community.