Tawang has emerged as a hub for global academic dialogue with the inauguration of the international conference on the cultural and historical legacy of the sixth Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso, in his birthplace.

The event began with prayers at the historic Tawang Monastery. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu described the conference as a “blessed beginning to honour his timeless spiritual and cultural legacy.” In a post on X, he stated, “Tawang, the birthplace of His Holiness the Sixth Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso, today becomes the centre of a global academic dialogue on his cultural, historical, and spiritual legacy.”

Born in 1683, the sixth Dalai Lama is remembered for his teachings, poetry, and compassion, which continue to inspire.

The four-day conference brings together experts from premier institutions in India and abroad specializing in Tibetan literature, Buddhist studies, arts, history, and anthropology. It is jointly organised by the state’s Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs department, the Thubten Shedrubling Foundation, and the Centre for Cultural Research and Documentation (CCRD).

The conference aims to critically examine the diverse legacy of Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso (1683–1706/46), whose poetry, written mainly in vernacular Tibetan, reflects themes of impermanence, exile, and spiritual longing. His work continues to influence Tibetan intellectual and spiritual heritage globally.

A representative from the Thubten Shedrubling Foundation noted that the sixth Dalai Lama’s life bridged spiritual and secular realms, with his poetry highlighting the enduring power of human expression amid historical upheavals.