Zehanpora Site and Buddhism in Kashmir

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.