Ten-Day Prayer Ceremony Underway at Panthagathi Monastery Amid Regional Tensions
Shimla, May 11 — In a profound gesture of solidarity and compassion, Tibetan monks at a Buddhist monastery in Panthagathi, on the outskirts of Shimla, are holding special prayers for peace between India and Pakistan, and for the souls of those who lost their lives in the recent cross-border conflict.
According to Lama Yangil, the peace prayers began around three to four days ago and are set to continue for a total of ten days. Speaking to PTI Videos on Sunday, he emphasized the spiritual importance of the ritual, especially in times of strife.
"As Tibetans, we preach non-violence and empathy," said monk Rora Sambu. "Our spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, has always advocated peace. These prayers are a reflection of that belief."
The initiative comes in the wake of a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists. In response, the Indian armed forces launched retaliatory strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The monks’ prayers aim not only to encourage peace between the two nations but also to honor the departed souls of those affected by the recent violence.
The peaceful surroundings of the monastery now echo with chants for healing and harmony, symbolizing a call for de-escalation and compassion in the region.