SECRETARY
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF TOURISM & CULTURE
DEPARTMENT OF CULTURE
NEW DELHI - 110 001
Foreword
The
Thankas are the portraits either of Buddha or Bodhisattvas. A Thanka
illuminates the mystical experience and stages of spiritual development of
the divine personality represented in the painting. Thankas have spiritual
significance as well as aesthetic value. These are installed either in the
family shrine or assembly hall of monastery as the objects of worship. The
devotees offer votive offering such as fruits, flowers and light the
butter lamp for a better life and spiritual development as well as love
and compassion for all beings. The Thankas do not have religious value
unless the divine spirit is infused in them. Consecration (prana
pratishtha) is accomplished by Lamas according to religious rites.
The exhibition of
these rare; Thankas is being organised in Delhi, Hyderabad and Varanasi by
Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh. Selection of Thankas has been
made under the supervision of Ladakh Gompa Association from four different
monasteries of Ladakh. Ladakh region, inspite of improvement in transport
and communication, is still largely inaccessible. Consequently, Thankas in
Ladakh monasteries have been shrouded in mystery for a long period of
time. The object of this exhibition is to provide a glimpse of this rich
legacy of Buddhist culture to people in different parts of the country .It
is hoped that this exhibition will stimulate curiosity and determination
to conserve this vast heritage.
R. V. Vaidyanatha Ayyar
January
29, 2001
