Commemorating the 97th birth anniversary of legendary historian and eminent scholar Late Tashi Rabgais, the 2nd edition of Ladakh Literature Day was celebrated on October 17 at Hotel Zen Ladakh.

The day was organised by LAHDC Leh and Ladakh Academy of Arts Culture and Language (LAACL) Leh.

Professor Dr. Lobzang Tsewang was conferred with the Ladakh Literature Award for the year 2023 for his scholarly dedication in the fields of philosophy, literature, and translation.

The chief guest of the occasion, MP Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, stated that all Ladakhi are so fortunate to be born in such a place which consist of different tribes and culture and are living unitedly with peace and harmony. Further, he also mentioned that Ladakh Literature Day is celebrated in order to preserve the rich heritage and culture of Ladakh.

He emphasised the much-needed role of the youths in carrying forward the rich legacy and preservation of the literary culture and tradition of Ladakh. He also mentioned that the learning of the Bhoti language will get a boost with the sanctioning of 240 plus Bhoti teacher posts under SAMAGRA SHIKSHA by the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India.

The Ladakh Academy of Arts Culture and Language (LAACL) Leh released books on the rich folk songs covering the whole region of Ladakh along with the creation of its digital repository accessible by QR code and biography on the Lama Tsultim Nyima.

Commissioner/Secretary, Mehboob Ali Khan stressed the initiatives of the UT Administration in the preservation and promotion of the language and culture of Ladakh with the observation of necessary Literature festivals in both the districts and the construction of a much-awaited Cultural Centre in the region as an asset for the cultural experts and the benefit of Cultural Academy and the involved stakeholders.

He lauded the effort of the Cultural Academy in the successful documentation and compilation of the folk songs before such rich oral traditions were lost.

Executive Councillor for Culture, Stanzin Chosphel stated that their focus is to provide platforms for all the young authors in upcoming times and music instruments will be provided on subsidy. He highlighted the initiative of the Hill Council Leh under which authors will be provided financial assistance for publishing their books and every Panchayat Halqas has been receiving up to ₹ 2 lakh for the preservation of ancient heritage sites.

Presenting the keynote address on ‘Ladakhi Literature and its Current Scenario’, Venerable Thupstan Palden spoke about the artistic traditional system of learning and declared that all should preserve this precious language for the future society. Dr. Tsering Dolker spoke about the ‘Role of Ladakhi Youth in Promoting Bhoti Language and Literature’.

Prizes and certificates were awarded to the winners of the School Level Essay Writing Competition in Bhoti.  A poetic symposium was also held as part of the Ladakh Literature Day 2023. A new musical instrument named 'Koyangs' created by music expert Ralam Angchuk was also launched by the dignitaries on the occasion.