World Heritage Day themed, ‘Heritage and climate’ was celebrated at Arahat Community Hall, Spituk, Leh on April 18.

Celebrated under the aegis of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav the day was organised by the Department of Archives, Archeology and Museum in collaboration with the Himalayan Culture Heritage Foundation (HCHF) and the village community of Spituk.

Chief Guest of the occasion, Executive Councillor for Art and Culture, Stanzin Chosphel lauded the efforts of the organising committee for organising the programme. He highlighted the rich cultural heritage as the true identity of Ladakh. He said that one of the priorities is the preservation of Culture Heritage and the need to create awareness among the younger generation about cultural preservation.

Councillor Phyang, Tundup Nurbu Cheetah emphasised the practice of cultural values of Ladakh to preserve the cultural heritage of Ladakh. He also reminded the selfless contribution of Bakula Rinpoche in preserving the rich culture of Ladakh. He extended his gratitude to EC Stanzin Chosphel for his immense contribution to preserving the cultural heritage of Ladakh.

BDC Chairman, Dr Skalzang Dorjey stressed the cooperation among the people and stakeholders for preserving the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.

Registering Officer, Antiquities, Ladakh, Khadim Hussain gave a detailed presentation on the initiative taken by the Department for the preservation of the cultural heritage of Ladakh. He also spoke on the need to organise an awareness programme for preventing any form of damage to petroglyphs, important heritage sites and monuments of Ladakh.

Ven Lobzang Nyantak spoke on the need for the conservation of Culture Heritage and the importance of the Bhoti language in the conservation of the cultural heritage of Ladakh. He lauded the efforts of EC Stanzin Chosphel, Dr Sonam Wangchuk and Noor Jahan in conserving the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.

Dr Sonam Wangchuk spoke on the different forms of cultural heritage and the effect of climate change on the ancient monuments in Ladakh. He emphasised the need of creating awareness among the younger generation about the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh and its preservation.

Co-founder, Shesrig Ladakh, Noor Jahan spoke on different art conservation practices and Heritage conservation initiatives in Ladakh.

The celebration included folk songs by Dorjey Stakmo and traditional dance by villagers of Spituk Village.