Jahanabad Buddha Reborn

Italian archaeologists have achieved a remarkable feat by restoring one of South Asia's most significant pieces of Buddhist art, nine years after it fell victim to a devastating attack by the Taliban.

The Jehanabad Buddha, renowned for its grandeur, suffered the loss of its face at the hands of Taliban militants. However, through a series of six month-long expeditions, an Italian-led team of restorationists has successfully reinstated the Buddha's visage, resurrecting its former splendor.

This majestic sculpture, an immense cliff-face carving, held an esteemed position as one of the foremost treasures of Buddhist art in the region, second only to the colossal Bamiyan Buddhas of Afghanistan. Tragically, the Bamiyan Buddhas, towering at heights of 115 and 174 feet, met their untimely demise in 2001 at the hands of the Taliban. In a similar act of wanton destruction, the Jehanabad Buddha suffered a similar fate in 2007 when militants callously implanted explosives into its face and shoulders under broad daylight.

Carved during the 6th or 7th century, this sculpture stands as a testament to the Swat Valley's historical significance as a thriving center of Buddhism. At its zenith, the valley radiated with the teachings and practices of the faith, attracting devotees and scholars from far and wide. It is worth noting that Padmasambhava, an influential figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is believed to have been born in the valley shortly after the statue's construction, further emphasizing its cultural and spiritual importance.

The successful restoration of the Jehanabad Buddha stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Italian archaeologists and their commitment to preserving and honoring our shared cultural heritage. Through their meticulous efforts, they have breathed new life into this extraordinary work of art, ensuring that future generations can marvel at its beauty and gain a deeper understanding of the profound Buddhist legacy that once thrived in the Swat Valley.

Buddha Rock Carvings 1, 2 at Fizaghat , Swat Valley

19-04-2019

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Nestled in the picturesque Swat Valley, Fizagat emerges as a captivating tourist spot, captivating visitors with its enchanting allure. Perched along the meandering banks of the Swat River, this idyllic location offers a resplendent panorama, allowing one to bask in the mesmerizing vista of the river's cold, flowing waters.

Across from Fizagat, a small hill rises majestically, its surroundings adorned with a bustling array of hotels, shops, and houses. At the heart of this elevated terrain, a remarkable sight awaits the discerning observer—the remnants of two Buddha statue carvings emerge, silently testifying to the region's rich historical and cultural legacy. Alas, the passage of time has not been kind to these statues, as both bear the scars of complete defacement, with the elements of weathering eroding away the intricacies of their once-exquisite features.

It is important to emphasize that the degradation of these carvings is solely a consequence of the relentless forces of nature. Perched at a significant height, these statues have endured the ceaseless battering of wind, rain, and sun, each element contributing to their gradual erosion. Yet, even in their diminished state, their presence exudes an aura of timelessness and invokes a deep sense of reverence.

Adding to the allure, both statues are positioned to face the Swat River, as if in harmonious communion with its mighty flow. This alignment creates a captivating illusion, whereby it appears as though the river gracefully caresses the feet of the Buddha, forging an inseparable connection between the natural landscape and the spiritual realm.

Moreover, it is worth noting that the selection of the location for these monumental carvings was not arbitrary. Instead, it was guided by a profound appreciation for the significance of the territory and the sacredness of the ground upon which they stand. Affectionately referred to as "Fizgat Buddha Rock Carving 1" and "Fizgat Buddha Rock Carving 2," these statues hold a prominent position that resonates with a deep historical and cultural importance.

As visitors traverse this area, they are transported to a bygone era, enveloped in an ethereal atmosphere that immerses them in the wonders of the past. Despite the ravages of time, the Fizgat Buddha Rock Carvings endure as resilient symbols, reminding us of the impermanence of existence and the necessity of cherishing our shared cultural heritage. They encapsulate the essence of the region, inviting all who encounter them to embark on a profound journey of exploration, contemplation, and spiritual enlightenment.

Fizgat Buddha Rock Carving 1

Fizgat Buddha Rock Carving 2

Buddha Rock Carving located at Ghowandai, Barikot

19-04-2019

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During our visit to Barikot, we had the opportunity to explore a captivating site known as Ghowandai, where a remarkable Buddha Rock carving awaited us. Perched on a large boulder face, two sculptures of Buddha stood as enduring testaments to the rich heritage of the region. However, the passage of time had taken its toll, leaving both carvings defaced and the once intricate features fading away due to the relentless impact of weathering. Adding to the site's tumultuous history, it was said to have suffered significant damage in the past as a result of devastating floods in the nearby Swat River.

Barikot, situated in the lower Swat region, earned its reputation as the "gateway to Swat Valley." This vibrant town, bustling with a population of twenty-five thousand, held great significance in the surrounding area.

Delving into the history of Barikot, expeditions conducted during the 1980s and 90s unveiled the remnants of an Indo-Greek town, dating back to the time of King Menander I in the 2nd century BC. However, it was the excavations that commenced in 2011, particularly in the southwest corner of the site, that unearthed even older settlements, unraveling the layers of the town's past. Among these discoveries, an intriguing pre-Indo-Greek level emerged, dating to the mid-3rd century BC, aligning with the illustrious Mauryan era. It was evident that a previous town had met its demise, likely falling victim to the conquest of Alexander the Great during the 4th century BC. Furthermore, in the vicinity of Bazira, a village belonging to the Gandhara grave culture of the 7th to 8th century BC was also brought to light, adding further depth to the historical narrative. Delving deeper, the oldest layer beneath Barikot revealed the remains of a village that had thrived between 1000-1100 BC. Under the rule of the mighty Kushan Empire, Barikot had flourished, evolving into a bustling town before succumbing to a series of catastrophic earthquakes in the 3rd century AD, which left it devastated. Throughout its vibrant history, the city had served as a prominent center of Buddhism, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological sites that still bear witness to its glorious past.

Intriguingly, my friend Majid F. Masud shared a captivating insight, emphasizing the enduring presence of Buddhism in Barikot. According to him, if one were to excavate anywhere within the town, remnants of Buddhist architecture would undoubtedly be unearthed, underscoring the deep-rooted influence of this ancient religion.

Buddha Rock Carvings 1 & 2

Buddha Rock Carvings 2

Buddha Rock Carvings 1