Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday inaugurated the first International Conference on Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso, the Sixth Dalai Lama, who was born in Tawang.

Sharing the details in a post on X, he said, "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. The first-ever International Conference began with the sacred Mandala offering. Born in 1683, in the 17th century, His Holiness continues to inspire humanity through his timeless teachings, poetry, and compassion. May the light of the Sixth Dalai Lama guide humanity forever."

In another post, he said, "Offered prayers at the sacred Tawang Monastery ahead of the International Conference on Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso, the Sixth Dalai Lama, born here in Tawang. A blessed beginning to honour his timeless spiritual and cultural legacy."

PM Khandu said that the opening ceremony of the 4-day International Conference on the Cultural and Historical Significance of His Holiness the Sixth Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso, welcomed scholars, monks and delegates from India and many other countries.

"This gathering marks a global effort to build a clearer and well-researched understanding of his life, legacy and timeless relevance. Not many, even across the Monyul and Buddhist world, know much about the cultural, spiritual and literary depth of His Holiness the Sixth Dalai Lama. The world remembers his poetry, but not the fullness of his teachings and wisdom. It is time that changes", he said.

The four-day event was inaugurated on Wednesday by Pema Khandu, who said that the conference will bring together faith, culture and scholarship in the birthplace of the revered spiritual figure.

Highlighting the global importance of Tsangyang Gyatso, the Sixth Dalai Lama, who is known for his spiritual insight and much-loved poetry, the Chief Minister said it is important to bring his full story to the world.

"The world knows little about His Holiness the Sixth Dalai Lama... it is now our duty to let the world know about his life, his philosophy, and his timeless words," Khandu said.

He said that the conference is being held under the guidance of His Eminence Ven Tengyur Rinpoche and the state Department of Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs.

Scholars from India and from other countries are attending to rediscover the deep and lasting legacy of the spiritual teacher who was born in Tawang.

Calling the event a proud moment for the region, he said, "A historic moment for Tawang, where faith, culture, and scholarship unite."