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.
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| Buddha Rock Carvings 1 & 2 |
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| Buddha Rock Carvings 2 |
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| Buddha Rock Carvings 1 |
