ABOUT THE BOOK
This is the compelling life story of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, an Incarnate Lama whose destiny led him beyond spiritual leadership to become a protector of the masses, a visionary reformer, and a redeemer of Buddha Dharma in Mongolia and Russia. More than just a biography, this book stands as a comprehensive reference on the history of Ladakh, its complex political relationship with the Kashmir leadership, the plight of Tibet, and the state of Indian leadership during the formative decades after independence.
It chronicles the inspiring journey of a towering personality whose legacy in India, Buddhism across Asia, and the wider Himalayan region deserves far greater recognition.
Kushok Bakula Rinpoche is a name that India must know—and remember.
ABOUT Author
Born in 1956 in Leh, Ladakh, the author began his education in his hometown before moving to New Delhi, where he continued his studies at Vishesh Kendriya Vidyalaya. He graduated from the prestigious St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, laying the foundation for a life of public service and cultural diplomacy.
He has held several distinguished positions, including a tenure at the National Commission for Minorities in New Delhi and subsequent service in India’s diplomatic corps. Over the decades, he has emerged as a prominent figure in international Buddhist and cultural diplomacy, advocating for intercultural dialogue and the preservation of Buddhist heritage.
In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the ‘Medal of Honour’ by the President of the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP) in 2019. In 2021, he received the ‘Medal of Friendship’ from the President of Mongolia for his pivotal role in strengthening India–Mongolia relations.
He currently serves as the Deputy Secretary General of the ABCP headquarters and is the Founding Director of the Pethub Monastery & Buddhist Centre in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia—an institution central to spiritual revival and intercultural engagement in the region.
A seasoned traveler and polyglot, he is fluent in Hindi, English, Mongolian, Russian, and Tibetan. He lives in New Delhi with his wife, Mrs. Rinchen Wangmo, and their two sons.