Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, shed light on the rich archaeological heritage of Kashmir, specifically mentioning the ancient Buddhist ruins at Zehanpora village in Baramulla district. The Zehanpora mounds, dating back potentially 2000 years to the Kushan period, have revealed stupas, walls, pottery, and other artifacts, showcasing a thriving Buddhist center in ancient Kashmir.
These archaeological findings offer valuable insights into Kashmir’s cultural and religious legacy, connecting to historical records by Chinese monks like Xuanzang. The excavations, conducted after extensive surveys using drones and ground-penetrating radar, have unveiled a significant early historic Buddhist site, indicating a flourishing Buddhist hub during the Kushan dynasty.
Dr. Harmeet Singh Soodan, a professor, highlighted the significance of the discovery, emphasizing its alignment with the Kushan architectural style and its potential link to the Kushan Empire’s activities in Kashmir. The Zehanpora site’s architectural features mirror those of prominent Gandharan sites, underscoring Kashmir’s historical ties to the broader Buddhist world.
