The Petroglyphs of Gogdara I (2019)

Petroglyphs are captivating forms of rock art, created by removing part of a rock surface through incising, picking, carving, or abrading. They can be found worldwide and are often associated with prehistoric peoples, providing glimpses into their ancient cultures and artistic expressions. The term "petroglyph" originates from the Greek words "petra," meaning "stone," and "glyphō," meaning "to carve." It was first coined in French as "pétroglyphe."

It is important to distinguish petroglyphs from petrographs, which are images drawn or painted on a rock face. While both types of images fall under the broader category of rock art or parietal art, they differ in the technique used. Petroglyphs involve the physical removal of rock material to create the image, whereas petrographs are created using pigments or paints. Additionally, petroforms refer to patterns and shapes made by arranging large rocks and boulders on the ground, which is a distinct form of rock art. Another unique form of rock art is the Inuksuk, found only in the Arctic, except for reproductions and imitations built in other regions.

One remarkable site showcasing prehistoric petroglyphs is Gogdara in the Swat Valley. These petroglyphs were discovered by G. Tucci in 1955 and depict a variety of wild and domestic animals, as well as anthropomorphic representations. According to the excavator of the site, the Gogdara rock surface boasts 117 graffiti. Among these, 71 are animal figures, 17 represent objects, and 29 remain unidentified, with no human figures present. These petroglyphs are believed to date back to the period from 1 AD to 2 BC, providing a glimpse into the artistic expressions and cultural practices of the ancient inhabitants of the Swat Valley.

Exploring prehistoric petroglyphs allows us to connect with the past and gain insights into the beliefs, lifestyles, and artistic talents of our ancestors. These intricate carvings on stone surfaces serve as a testament to the human desire for expression and communication across time and space. By studying and preserving these petroglyphs, we can deepen our understanding of our shared human history and appreciate the rich diversity of ancient cultures around the world.

Buddha Rock Carving located at Ghowandai, Barikot

19-04-2019

All fotos are owned

All Text owned

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 

Jogian Sar and Amluk Dara Stupa

Elum Mountain, located in the Buner district, has held great significance for the Hindu community for centuries. Revered as a divine site and a place of pilgrimage, it is known as Jogian Sar among the locals and Ram Takhat (God's Throne) among Hindus. According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Ramchandra, the deity, spent time meditating on this mountain during his pilgrimage, known as binbas. As a religious practice, Hindus visit this sacred site every year in June, although the number of pilgrims has somewhat decreased in recent years.

The name Jogian Sar signifies the peak of the Jogis or Yogis, attributed to the presence of a few Hindu Sadhus (monks) who choose to meditate and reside on the mountain throughout the year. Atop this revered mountain, one can find the remains of ancient temples and a man-made pool carved entirely out of solid stone. This pool serves as a collection point for rainwater, considered holy by the Hindus.

A remarkable structure in the vicinity is the grand stupa of Amluk Dara, which, although now in ruins, still commands attention. Once standing as tall as the Pantheon in Rome, it is situated at the foot of Jogian Sar. This stupa was just one among many Buddhist structures in the kingdom of Udyāna, a prominent region along the Silk Road.

Amluk Dara lies on the route followed by Hindu devotees from lower Swat during their annual visit to the sacred peak of Mount Elum, which serves as a majestic backdrop to the stupa. Even during Buddhist times, the mountain's summit was a revered destination for pilgrims and may have been associated with legendary tales that have persisted to this day.

This area, owing to its strategic location connecting North India with Central Asia, has historically been of great importance. It often marked the borders of larger empires, with rulers from India unable to expand further north due to the mountainous terrain, while rulers from beyond the mountains faced challenges in extending their domains into the Indian plains. Notably, the renowned conqueror Alexander the Great waged significant battles in this region during his campaigns in Central Asia. His army marched east from the city he founded in Kapisa, known as Alexander on the Caucasus (Bagram), and fought numerous battles to gain control of the area. Some of these battles took place in the Swat valley, culminating in Alexander's successful siege of Aornos, an apparently impregnable mountain where locals had sought refuge. Identifying the precise location of this ancient battle has intrigued scholars for over a century, with Pir Sar and Mount Ilam being the most probable candidates.

Legend speaks of the Apalala, a serpent king residing in a high mountain lake in the Hindu Kush. Each year, the Apalala demanded a grain offering from the people residing in the Swat river valley, which flowed from the lake. When the people refused to make the offering, the Apalala flooded their lands as an act of revenge. Seeking help, the people turned to Buddha, who came to the valley, converted the Apalala, and left his footprint on a rock as a symbol of his visit. This footprint, now preserved in the local museum, serves as a reminder of Buddha's presence. The Swat River still floods, and for centuries, the valley remained a significant center of Buddhism. The choice of Amluk Dara and its central stupa was influenced by the landscape, with the fertile Swat valley portraying a picturesque setting with blooming flowers, lush hedges, and trees.

Scholars have highlighted the close connection between monasteries and the Indian concept of a garden, featuring pleasure groves and arbors. The establishment of monasteries often aimed to assimilate them into the cultural category of gardens. The selection of monastery sites considered the framing of views within the garden, which later travelers also noted. This careful selection of sacred spots added to the charm and allure of these places.

During its prime, news of Udyāna's Buddhist sites and temples spread along the Silk Road, carried by monks and merchants, with the mountain valley becoming part of the itinerary for pilgrim monks en route to India. The Chinese monk Faxian was among the first to record his visit to Udyāna around 403 AD. He stayed for several months, visiting the Buddha's footprint, the rock where Buddha dried his clothes, and the place where he converted the "wicked serpent." Faxian documented the presence of 400 Buddhist monasteries in the region.

The historical and religious significance of Elum Mountain, Jogian Sar, and the surrounding areas make them captivating destinations for pilgrims, scholars, and enthusiasts interested in exploring the cultural heritage and ancient wonders of the region.

Elum Mountain (Jogian Sar) in Background