Ladakh Cultural Forum celebrated its 47th Foundation Day on May 3 at Lotsava Auditorium, Ladakh Academy of Arts Culture and Languages (LAACL), Leh.

Chief guest of the occasion, MP Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal commended the role of the Ladakh Cultural Forum. He added that the Bhoti script and language are the foundation and bedroack of the rich culture and tradition of Ladakh which requires utmost preservation and promotion. Acknowledging the efforts to promote the Bhoti language, MP Ladakh shared that the Bhoti language is now a recognised subject in CBSE with a concurred syllabus which enables the provision of Bhoti teaching and learning in all the schools affiliated to CBSE, including schools like JNV and KV. 

Further, he added that LAHDC Leh in coordination with School Education Department formed an expert committee to prepare Bhoti textbooks for Classes 1st to 8th, and for Secondary and Higher Secondary classes the textbooks are under progress. He added that these Bhoti textbooks are prepared, highlighting the socio-religious harmony of the region. He also informed that emphasis is laid on the creation of Bhoti lecturer posts as well. 

MP Ladakh shared that the celebration of Bhoti Language Day in all the Bhoti-speaking Himalayan region along with the above efforts would strengthen the cause of including the Bhoti language in Schedule 8th of the Indian Constitution. He also stressed the need of conducting workshops between language experts and Bhoti research scholars and the media fraternity to enable the correct propagation and dissemination of the Bhoti language among the public.

JTN urged LAACL Leh to explore the feasibility to conduct Bhoti language diploma courses and other courses which come under the aegis of Rignas Chu such as traditional astrology and mask dance ‘Chhams’ in collaboration with All Ladakh Gompa Association. MP Ladakh also assured to provide all possible support to strengthen the aims and objectives of the Ladakh Cultural Forum.  

Executive Councillor, Culture, LAHDC Leh, Stanzin Chosphel lauded the efforts of LCF in the preservation and promotion of the vast traditional and cultural heritage of Ladakh. He also credited MP Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal for being the impetus behind the visible changes in the promotion of the Bhoti language in the region.

Also, EC Chosphel assured to provide financial support and assistance to LCF from Hill Council. 

President LCF, Dr. Sonam Wangchuk; Venerable Thupstan Palden; Editor, LAACL Leh, Dr. Thupstan Nurboo; Dramatist, Tsetan Angchuk; Amchi Jigmet Lhazes shared their views on the role and significance of LCF, Rignas Chu and the need for the conservation and promotion of Bhoti language, the foundation of Ladakhi culture and heritage along with spreading awareness about the same. 

Scholar Nawang Tsering Shakspo and poet Jigmet Nurboo ‘Khayal Ladakhi’ launched their books.