Tsewang Rigzin
LEH, Nov 10: Gyalmo Deskit Wangmo (Rani Parvati Devi), the Queen of Ladakh, was cremated with full state honors today at Stok. She passed away on November 5 at the Royal Palace in Stok, Leh, at the age of 90.
She served as a Member of Parliament in the 6th Lok Sabha from the Ladakh Parliamentary constituency from 1977 to 1980, being the only woman elected so far from Ladakh as an MP.
The funeral procession was attended by Chairman of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh, Tashi Gyalson, former Member of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Ravi Thakur, royal family members, and many prominent citizens of Leh and Lahaul-Spiti.
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Earlier, LAHDC held a condolence meeting on the passing of Gyalmo Deskit Wangmo. The meeting highlighted her remarkable legacy, rooted in unwavering dedication to the welfare of Ladakh’s people, which will continue to resonate for generations to come.
“As the first woman Member of Parliament from Ladakh, elected in 1977, she was a trailblazer whose courage, vision, and leadership paved the way for others, especially women from Ladakh, marking a significant milestone in Ladakh’s political and social progress. Gyalmo Deskit Wangmo embodied strength, compassion and selfless service, tirelessly working to uplift her community and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh,” read a statement issued by LAHDC following her demise.
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Born on May 1, 1934, at Khangsar Palace in Lahaul, she hailed from the prestigious Royal House of Khangsar. She married Kunzang Namgyal, the King of Ladakh, on July 10, 1950, and became a steadfast partner in the region’s growth and development.
Beyond her political career, she made substantial contributions as a social leader, notably as the Convener of the Welfare Extension Project in Leh, which she led from 1958, focusing on the social and economic betterment of Ladakhi communities.
As a founding member of the Namgyal Institute of Research on Ladakhi Art and Culture (NIRLAC), Gyalmo Deskit Wangmo played a key role in safeguarding traditional arts and culture for future generations. Her philanthropic efforts, including bringing the Save the Children Fund to Ladakh, highlighted her unwavering commitment to the well-being of all Ladakhis, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable.
Ladakhi leaders from all sections of society extended heartfelt sympathy to Raja Jigmet Wangchuk Namgyal, Rani Sarla Chhewang, Rani Rinchen Wangmo, Raja Karma Konchok Namgyal and all members of the royal family, as well as their relatives, friends and well-wishers.
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