Kushok Bakula Rinpoche

Documentary on Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Premieres at IIC, New Delhi

A documentary on Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, revered Ladakhi monk and former Indian Ambassador to Mongolia, premiered on 27 August 2025 at IIC New Delhi, highlighting his role in reviving Buddhism and strengthening India–Mongolia ties.

Table of Contents

A documentary on the life and legacy of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, one of Ladakh’s most revered Buddhist monks, was premiered on 27 August 2025 at the India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi. The screening brought together scholars, diplomats, monks, and admirers of Rinpoche’s contribution to spirituality, diplomacy, and India’s cultural diplomacy abroad.

Who Was Kushok Bakula Rinpoche?

Kushok Bakula Rinpoche (1917–2003) was a highly revered Buddhist monk, statesman, and diplomat from Ladakh, regarded as an incarnation of Arhat Bakula, one of the 16 direct disciples of Gautama Buddha. His life’s work bridged the spiritual and diplomatic worlds, making him a unique figure in modern Indian history.

Key Roles:

Spiritual Leadership: Served as the spiritual head of Pethup Gompa, Spituk (Ladakh), guiding Buddhist monastic and lay communities.
Indian Statesman: Advocated for Ladakh’s integration and development within the Indian Union.
Diplomat: Served as India’s Ambassador to Mongolia (1990–2000/2001), where he played a historic role in reviving Buddhism after decades of suppression during communist rule.

His Contribution to Buddhism and Diplomacy

Kushok Bakula Rinpoche is credited with:

Reviving Buddhism in Mongolia: Helped reopen monasteries, train monks, and reconnect Mongolian Buddhists with their Tibetan and Indian heritage.
Promoting India–Mongolia Friendship: Strengthened cultural, spiritual, and political ties between the two nations, laying the foundation for the strong partnership India and Mongolia share today.
Spreading Buddhism Abroad: Contributed to the revival of Buddhism not only in Mongolia but also in Russia and Central Asia, where Buddhism had nearly vanished under communist regimes.
Nation-Building in Ladakh: Advocated education, development, and integration while preserving Ladakh’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

Significance of the Documentary

The documentary offers a rare glimpse into the life of Rinpoche, highlighting:

His early years in Ladakh.
His role in Indian diplomacy during a critical period of post-Cold War Asia.
His contributions to Buddhist revival in Mongolia and beyond.
His spiritual guidance that continues to inspire generations in Ladakh and Buddhist communities worldwide.

By showcasing Rinpoche’s multifaceted legacy, the film not only celebrates a spiritual leader but also reminds viewers of India’s soft power diplomacy rooted in culture and faith.

Conclusion

The premiere of the documentary on Kushok Bakula Rinpoche at IIC, New Delhi, marks a significant moment in honoring his legacy as a monk, diplomat, and cultural ambassador. His life exemplifies how spirituality and diplomacy can merge to create lasting impacts on societies, strengthening India’s cultural footprint across Asia.