Eighth Evening of Cultural Celebrations at Leh Main Market Enthrals Audiences.

May 9, 2026
Eighth Evening of Cultural Celebrations at Leh Main Market Enthrals Audiences.
Leh, May 9: The eighth evening of the cultural celebrations being organised in connection with the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha transformed Leh Main Market into a vibrant hub of music, dance and cultural exchange, drawing large gatherings of residents, devotees and visitors from across the region.
Organised by the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala, the ongoing cultural series is being held under the theme “Peace Beyond Borders” to commemorate the 2569th Vesak Purnima.
The evening began with the traditional presentation of Lharna, setting a spiritual and festive tone for the programme. This was followed by performances by the Northen Institute of Performing Arts (NIPA) Cultural Group, Leh. Artists from Himachal Pradesh presented the traditional Paduwa folk dance, a rhythmic and energetic performance commonly associated with local fairs, religious gatherings and festive occasions.
Cultural artists from Karnataka captivated the audience with Puja Kunitha, a vibrant ritual folk dance dedicated to Goddess Shakti. The performers balanced beautifully decorated wooden structures known as “Puja” on their heads while dancing gracefully to the beats of drums and cymbals, showcasing a striking blend of devotion and artistry.
The programme also featured soulful Ladakhi folk songs by renowned local artists including Tundup Namgyal, Rigzin Gurmet Lacs and Jigmet Spaldon. Their performances added a rich local essence to the evening and were warmly appreciated by the audience. Sadiq Ashoor from Kargil performed Urdu ghazal.
The cultural night concluded with an energetic musical performance by Zangskar Kanika Band, which further elevated the festive spirit at Leh Main Market. Enthusiastic crowds clapped, sang along and danced to the lively tunes, while many youngsters and visitors gathered near the stage, turning the event into a joyful celebration of community and culture.
As the Sacred Relic Exposition continues to attract devotees from different parts of the country and beyond, the parallel cultural evenings at Leh Main Market are emerging as a vibrant platform for showcasing India’s rich cultural diversity while promoting the shared values of peace, harmony and unity. The cultural celebrations will continue every evening till May 13, 2026.