News: The Zehanpora site gained attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned its archaeological discovery in his Mann ki Baat address.
About Zehanpora Site and Buddhism in Kashmir
- Zehanpora is a large Buddhist archaeological site that highlights the deep historical roots of Buddhism in Kashmir.
- Location: Zehanpora is located in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, in the northern part of the Kashmir region.
- Major findings at site
- Structures: Archaeologists have identified stupas, monk living spaces, and carefully planned stone foundations spread across the plateau.
- Architecture: The stupa layouts show Gandharan influence, which indicates cultural interaction with north-western Buddhist regions.
- Links to Kushan-Era (1st – 3rd century): Archaeologists believe the site may have links with Huvishkapura, an ancient Kushan capital mentioned in historical texts.
- Strategic Location: Zehanpora lay on an ancient trade and pilgrimage corridor connecting Gandhara and Kashmir, supporting the movement of monks, merchants, and ideas.
- Significance: The site confirms Kashmir’s role as a major Buddhist centre and an important node in ancient trade and pilgrimage networks.
About Buddhism in Kashmir
- Buddhism was prevalent in Kashmir even before Ashoka’s reign, as mentioned in Kalhana’s Rajatarangini.
- The Fourth Buddhist Council, associated with the Sarvastivada tradition, is believed to have been held in Kashmir during Kanishka’s reign.
- Kashmir hosted important Buddhist philosophical developments, including the rise of Mahayana Buddhism.
- The region played a role in spreading Buddhism to Central Asia and China through missionary monks.
- Other important sites: Harwan, Ambaran (Akhnoor), and Parihaspora are significant ancient Buddhist archaeological sites in Kashmir.
