Buddhist Heritage in Pakistan: Taxila, Takht-i-Bahi

Pakistan is home to a rich and ancient Buddhist heritage, particularly in the Gandhara region, which flourished as a center of Buddhist art, culture, and learning from the 1st century BCE to the 5th century CE. The region, encompassing present-day northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan, was a melting pot of Indian, Greek, Persian, and Central Asian influences, giving rise to the unique Gandhara Art style. Key archaeological sites such as Taxila and Takht-i-Bahi stand as testaments to this glorious past and have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This article explores the significance of Taxila, Takht-i-Bahi, and Gandhara Art in Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage, shedding light on their historical, cultural, and artistic contributions.

1. Gandhara Civilization: The Cradle of Buddhist Art

Historical Background

The Gandhara region, located in the Peshawar Valley and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces, was a major center of Buddhism under the rule of the Mauryan Empire (3rd century BCE) and later the Kushan Empire (1st–5th century CE). The Kushan kings, particularly Kanishka the Great, were great patrons of Buddhism, facilitating the spread of the religion across Central and East Asia.

Gandhara Art: A Fusion of Cultures

Gandhara Art is renowned for its Greco-Buddhist style, blending Hellenistic artistic techniques with Buddhist themes. Key characteristics include:

Realistic Depictions of Buddha: Unlike earlier Indian aniconic representations, Gandhara artists portrayed Buddha in human form, influenced by Greek sculpture.
Use of Stucco and Schist: Gandhara sculptures were crafted from schist stone and stucco, displaying intricate details.

Narrative Reliefs: Scenes from Buddha’s life and Jataka tales were depicted in detailed panels.

Famous examples of Gandhara Art include:

Standing Buddha statues (resembling Greek gods like Apollo)

Buddhist stupas adorned with relief carvings
Monastic complexes with exquisite sculptures

2. Taxila: The Ancient Seat of Learning

Overview

Taxila (or Takshashila), located near modern-day Islamabad, was a major center of Buddhist learning and trade. It was part of the Silk Road and attracted scholars from across Asia.

Key Buddhist Sites in Taxila

a. Dharmarajika Stupa

One of the oldest stupas in Taxila, believed to contain relics of Buddha.
Built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
Features monastic cells and votive stupas.

b. Jaulian Monastery

A well-preserved monastic complex with stupas, chapels, and statues.
Displays fine examples of stucco sculptures.

c. Mohra Moradu

A Buddhist monastery with meditation chambers and intricately carved stupas.

Known for its stucco Buddha figures.

d. Sirkap (Kushan City)

A planned city showcasing Hellenistic and Buddhist architecture.
Houses the Double-Headed Eagle Stupa, reflecting Greek influence.

UNESCO World Heritage Status

Taxila was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 for its outstanding archaeological significance.

3. Takht-i-Bahi: The Mountain Monastery

Overview

Takht-i-Bahi (Throne of the Water Spring), located near Mardan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is one of the most well-preserved Buddhist monastic complexes in Pakistan. It dates back to the 1st century CE and remained active until the 7th century.

Architectural Highlights

a. Main Stupa Court

The central stupa is surrounded by smaller votive stupas.

Features Corinthian-style columns, indicating Greco-Buddhist influence.

b. Monastery Complex

Includes meditation cells, assembly halls, and a refectory.
Displays intricate stone carvings and inscriptions.

c. Tantric Monastery

Suggests the presence of Vajrayana Buddhism in later periods.

UNESCO Recognition

Takht-i-Bahi, along with nearby Sahr-i-Bahlol, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.

4. Preservation and Tourism

Current Status

Many Gandhara artifacts are housed in the Taxila Museum, Peshawar Museum, and Lahore Museum.

The Pakistani government, in collaboration with UNESCO, is working to preserve these sites.
Buddhist Pilgrimage Tourism: Efforts are underway to attract Buddhist pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Japan, Korea, and Thailand.

Challenges

Looting and Illegal Excavations: Some artifacts have been smuggled abroad.

Environmental Degradation: Erosion and urbanization threaten the sites.
Lack of Awareness: Many Pakistanis are unaware of this heritage.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage, particularly in Taxila, Takht-i-Bahi, and the Gandhara region, represents a golden age of art, religion, and scholarship. These sites not only reflect the historical connections between South Asia and the wider Buddhist world but also offer immense potential for cultural tourism. By preserving and promoting this heritage, Pakistan can reclaim its place as a significant center of Buddhist history and spirituality.