ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik has termed monasteries as living institutions that preserve the state’s rich Buddhist heritage, nurture moral values and strengthen social harmony, saying they have remained repositories of ancient wisdom while also contributing to cultural tourism and peaceful coexistence.
The governor made the remarks during his maiden visit to the Sang-ngag Choekhor Dargyeling Monastery, popularly known as Chilipam Monastery, in West Kameng district on Sunday, where he offered prayers and participated in a special ceremony for peace, prosperity and the well-being of humanity.
Lauding the monastery’s contribution to society, he said institutions like Chilipam have played an invaluable role in preserving Buddhist traditions, spiritual values and the cultural heritage of the region, an official statement said here on Monday.
“Monasteries such as Chilipam are far more than places of worship. They are living institutions that nurture moral values, foster compassion and serve as repositories of ancient wisdom that continue to guide society towards peace, harmony and mutual respect,” he said.
Drawing from his years of service in Buddhist regions from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, including Bhutan, Parnaik said Buddhist institutions have made a significant contribution to strengthening social cohesion and promoting tolerance and understanding among communities.
He said the monastery’s distinctive architecture, sacred relics, vibrant monastic traditions and serene surroundings attract devotees, pilgrims, scholars and tourists from across the country and abroad.
Such heritage sites, he added, not only preserve the state’s cultural legacy but also promote cultural tourism.
During the visit, the governor interacted with the monastery’s spiritual head and abbot, Rimpoche Trulku Tenzin Jigme, who briefed him on its initiatives to impart spiritual education, preserve Buddhist teachings and guide young people towards a life rooted in discipline, compassion and ethical values.
Appreciating the monastery’s efforts, Parnaik stressed the importance of involving the younger generation in preserving Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
A special prayer ceremony was organised at the monastery, where monks offered prayers and blessings for peace, harmony and the well-being of humanity, reflecting the Buddhist ideals of universal brotherhood and collective well-being.
Local MLA Tseten Chombay, commissioner to the governor Pawan Kumar Sain, West Kameng deputy commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar Chetia, Superintendent of Police D W Thungon and Sherdukpen community leaders accompanied the governor during the visit.
Located around 15 km from Rupa in West Kameng district, Chilipam Monastery is one of Arunachal Pradesh’s prominent Buddhist centres.
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Eastern Himalayas, it is known for its religious significance, traditional architecture and tranquil surroundings, drawing visitors from across India and abroad. (Source: PTI)
