Buddhist Stupa In Pakistan : Its History And Specialty
Buddhist Stupa In Pakistan
Buddhist Stupa In Pakistan, Buddhism is one of the world’s major religions, but it has very few followers in Pakistan.But Pakistan has many ancient Buddhist sites and valuable artefacts. Over the past few years, work has been underway on various projects, including the Katarapur Corridor, with the aim of promoting religious tourism. Also, keeping in view the interest of foreign tourists towards Gandhara civilization, programs related to Buddhism have also been started.
Importance of Buddhist Stupa In Pakistan
From the 5th century BC to the 2nd century BC, Takshashila was considered an important center of Buddhist learning.There are various stupas, places of worship and archeological remains that can promote religious tourism.These places are not only included in the list of ancient sites of Pakistan, but are also considered as an important place of worship among Buddhists.
Buddhists have a good presence in Nepal, India, Myanmar and Korea.For the first time since the seventh century, a special worship service was held for Buddhists at an ancient site in Takshashila last week. Worship was held near the Bhimala Stupa in Haripur district, led by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Department of Archeology, where Korean monks wished for world peace.
About that, a monk from Korea, Dr. “For us, it’s one of the seven holiest sites in the world. It’s the holiest of them all,” Sinam said.The stupa is located on a hill near Khanpur Dam. Interestingly, this ancient site is cross-shaped from above and is considered to be one of the last proofs of Gandhara civilization.
There is a road near Khanpur Dam to reach Bhimala Stupa. The road is not very good, but the breathtaking view of the river in the valley relieves your fatigue.
History of Buddhist Stupa In Pakistan
The stupa was discovered in the 1930s by British archaeologist Sir John Marshall. Some of the remains of this historic site, which is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List, can also be seen in the Takshashila Museum. After reaching here and climbing dozens of ladders, you can see the cross-shaped stupa where thousands of university students often go on study tours. There are ladders around the stupa where Buddhists come to worship. There are many idols, places of worship and ancient materials can be easily seen.
Statue of the Swopnil Buddha :Buddhist Stupa In Pakistan
According to experts, the Buddha statue from the Bhimala Stupa is made of Kanjur stone and is probably one of the oldest Buddhist statues in the region. Abdul Nasir, curator of the Takshashila Museum, told the BBC that Heda in Afghanistan and Takshashila Gandhara in Pakistan were world-famous for their civilization.
“Art related to the Gandhara civilization is popular all over the world. The purpose of this art was to propagate and worship the religion. This art was made by monks in stupas and not at home.”
He added, “The costumes, ornaments and styles of these statues are almost the same all over the world.”According to Nasir, the characteristic of the dream idol is that it marks the departure of Gautama Buddha from the world.
Goodwill for Religious Tourism
Sadaf Raza, one of the organizers of the event at the stupa, said the Korean monks had come here to discuss with the Pakistani government what could be done about the Gandhara civilization.
“If we open YF sites for them, they will be able to promote tourism in our country as well as have a place of peace of mind.”
Last week’s worship with the wish of peace was special. Monk Dr. Sinam expressed concern over the Kashmir issue.He added, “We are all one. For us, Pakistan is like our own country. Whether you believe in Buddhism or Islam, we are all one.”During the special worship, the monk Dr. Sinam offered milk and fruits to places of worship and monasteries here.
