#bamiyan valley

[kp777]

#afghanistan #bamiyan valley #taliban

[ancientorigins]

One of the most tragic examples of religious iconoclasm in recent history is the destruction of the two giant standing statues of Buddha by the Taliban in March 2001. These were the famed Buddhas of Bamiyan, which were carved into the side of a cliff in the Bamiyan Valley, in the Hazarajat province of central Afghanistan. But an ancient text suggests that there was a third gigantic Bamiyan Buddha statue in the past – a Buddha that has yet to be discovered.

[pri-ide]

Buddha Sculpture Bamiyan Valley, Afghanistan, 1992. The statue was destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, by Steve McCurry

𖣯

#buddha #steve mccurry #afghanistan #asia #buddhism #zen #90s #photography #nature

[buddhismnow]

The Last Buddhas of Bamiyan by John Aske

The Last Buddhas of Bamiyan by John Aske http://wp.me/pFy3u-2ss

Two hours north of Ghazni, on the road to Kabul, in an arid place, a dusty track leads westward. If you follow it, you enter a half-forgotten kingdom, and a legendary highway that traversed the known world. Beyond this, hidden in the mountains, are green valleys and rivers bordered with willows and hayfields. Even before Ashoka began spreading his empire through the western passes and into…

View On WordPress

#Afghanistan #ancient Celtic tongues #Genghis Khan #Ghazni #Graeco-Buddhist kingdoms #Hepthalite Huns #Kabul #Kushan

[mahayanapilgrim]

Global Spread of Buddhism - 10

Buddhism in Pakistan

Buddhism was introduced to present day Pakistan in the 3rd century BC, when emperor Ashoka sent Buddhist emissaries to spread Buddhism. During the Gandhara period Buddhism was the prevalent religion with Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions being practised by the majority of the population until the Islam invasions during the 7th century. The Indo-Greek king Menander who ruled from 160 to 130 BC was a Buddhist devotee and a dialogue between him and a Buddhist scholar named Nagasena is recorded in the widely known Buddhist text called Milindapanha. Places like Taxila and Swat valley had been cradles of Buddhism and Gandhara Buddhist art in the past and it is believed that at one time there were 1400 Buddhist monasteries in the Swat valley practising the three Buddhist traditions of Theravada, Mahayana and Vairayana. In 2007, the seven meters tall stone Buddha statue in the Swat valley was attacked and damaged by suspected Taliban extremists. According to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADA), there were only 1492 Pakistani nationals in 2012 who were identified as Buddhist.

Buddhism in Afghanistan

It is widely believed that following the 3rd Buddhist council in India during the 3rd century BC, emperor Ashoka sent Buddhist missionaries to the region now known as Afghanistan to spread the Buddha's teachings. There is also a theory that Buddhism would have already existed there as some Buddhist monks went there to settle down following the 2nd Buddhist council held 100 years following the Buddha's passing away. The ancient kingdom of Gandhara which included Afghanistan was once considered the jewel of Buddhist civilization and Buddhist art and it is believed that the Gandhara artists painted and sculpted Buddha in human form for the first time. Prior to that Buddha was always represented by a symbol or an empty space.

Theravada tradition of Buddhism seems to have existed there first but the Mahayana tradition became the predominant tradition later on.

Buddhism flourished during the Kushan period and the 4th Buddhist council held around 100 CE to promote Mahayana tradition was facilitated by the Kushan ruler Kanishka. By the 4th century CE Bamiyan had one of the biggest Buddhist monastic communities where the two world famous giant standing Buddha statues were carved into a cliff which were to be destroyed by the Taliban in 2001. It is believed that up to 5000 Buddhist monks used to live and meditate in the caves behind the statues.

Valuable articles of Buddhist art as well as Buddhist religious sites were destroyed during the wars and by Islam extremists and remains of Buddhist art, temples, monasteries, stupas and Buddhist relics are still being discovered in several regions of Afghanistan. Buddhism began to decline with the Islam invasions in the 7th century and by the 11th century it was virtually extinct in Afghanistan.

#buddha #buddhist #buddhism #dharma #sangha #mahayana #zen #milarepa #tibetan buddhism #thich nhat hanh #dhammapada #karma #mindfulness #dakini #four noble truths #pure land #equanimity #avalokitesvara #manjushri #bodhisattva #tsongkhapa #padmasambhava #green tara #atisha #amitabha #shantideva #heart sutra #vajrasattva #medicine buddha #meditation

[notwiselybuttoowell]

The Taliban have launched construction work on a tourism complex just metres from the cliff that held the Bamiyan Buddha statues, which archeologists and experts warn could cause permanent damage to the sensitive world heritage site.

The project aims to “rebuild” a historic bazaar, which was destroyed in the civil war of the 1990s. Under the Taliban blueprint, the area will become a tourism centre with restaurants, guesthouses, parking, public toilets and handicraft and grocery shops.

But the ruined bazaar is itself a historic site that may sit on top of older ruins, and it is also close to the fragile cliff of Buddhist monastery caves that is one of Afghanistan’s greatest treasures.

“This old bazaar is in the archaeological buffer zone of the world heritage site and Unesco [the UN agency that manages the listings] has never been in favour of reusing this place,” said a diplomat with expertise in heritage issues in Afghanistan, who asked to remain anonymous.

“On the contrary, these buildings are located in the middle of an archaeological zone, and the buildings themselves are in some way part of the late 19th- and early 20th-century heritage and therefore their reconstruction is sensitive.”

In 2001, the Taliban destroyed two giant statues that had towered over the valley for more than a millennium, but the niches where they stood, and surviving cave frescos and other remains still make the site one of global importance.

The main road through Bamiyan was re-routed years ago to limit vibrations and fumes from traffic. This new plan would bring a heavy influx of people and vehicles back into a fragile area, officially designated a protected zone.

Mawlawi Saifurrahman Mohammadi, the provincial director for information and culture [...] said over 20 strict building controls had been fixed to respect the sensitive nature of the site. They include limiting buildings to a single storey, restricting the use of concrete for drains and pavements, and controlling the type of stones and plaster used.

He said the project had been signed off by Unesco, the United Nations educational, scientific and cultural agency. “[The central government] negotiated with Unesco and they sent us back a guideline on how to do it.”

But Unesco, which monitors world heritage sites and has been working at Bamiyan for decades, said it had not been consulted on the project, and had not given its approval to rebuilding the bazaar. It warned in a statement that the building could affect conservation work.

“Unesco has neither requested nor been associated with this project, which is located in the heart of the archaeological zone and could be problematic for the proper conservation of the world heritage site,” it said in a statement.

Heritage experts from Bamiyan also said they were alarmed at the destructive potential of the plan.

“This is a very restricted area, nobody is allowed to do any construction here, but the Taliban have decided to rebuild,” said one official who asked not to be named criticising the government. “I worked here in the past and I know the value of the site.

Bamiyan governor Abdullah Sarhadi [...] said he decided to launch the reconstruction after the owners of the shops came to petition him. They said they had effectively been robbed of their land when it was marked a heritage area and rebuilding banned.

“We should not let people have their land taken away here,” he said. “People could not get their [rightful] property, now it’s time they get it back.”

In tacit recognition of the area’s potential archeological value however, Mohammadi said the government would reserve the right to reclaim the bazaar area for archeological excavation in future.

#bamiyan #bamiyan buddhas #world heritage #UNESCO #Afghanistan #taliban #archeology #buddhism

[juancarlosphotog]

FROM THE ARCHIVE / DEL ARCHIVO * Bamiyan Valley, Afghanistan / El Valle de Bamiyán, Afganistán * * * #EverydayAfghanistan #PostTaliban #Photojournalism #EverydayKabul #HansLucas #IslamicEmirate #Photojournalism #CentralAsia #DeBeeldunie #JuanCarlos #2022Copyright * * * © Juan Carlos - All Rights Reserved / Todos los Derechos Reservados * * * Represented by Hans Lucas @studiohanslucas (France) and @beelduine De Beeldunie (Netherlands) (at Afghanistan) https://www.instagram.com/p/CmOXx73uNla/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#everydayafghanistan #posttaliban #photojournalism #everydaykabul #hanslucas #islamicemirate #centralasia #debeeldunie #juancarlos #2022copyright

[afghanlogisticstours]

Things to Do in Afghanistan - Attractions & Tourist Spots

Certainly, Afghan Tours offers various attractions and tourist spots that showcase its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and historical significance. Here are some notable things to do and places to visit in Afghanistan:

Kabul: Explore the capital city, Kabul, and visit attractions such as the Kabul Museum, Kabul Zoo, and the historic Babur Gardens.

Herat: Discover the ancient city of Herat, known for its beautiful mosques, historical sites like the Herat Citadel, and vibrant bazaars.

Mazar-i-Sharif: Visit the Blue Mosque, also known as the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, one of the holiest sites in Afghanistan.

Bamiyan Valley: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bamiyan Valley, known for the giant Buddha statues (destroyed in 2001) and its stunning natural beauty.

Band-e Amir National Park: Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Afghanistan's first national park, known for its stunning blue lakes and limestone formations.

Panjshir Valley: Experience the scenic beauty of the Panjshir Valley, famous for its emerald-green landscapes, mountains, and historical significance.

Khyber Pass: Visit the historic Khyber Pass, a mountain pass connecting Afghanistan with Pakistan, known for its strategic importance and ancient history.

Minaret of Jam: Explore the Minaret of Jam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the tallest brick minarets in the world, located in a remote valley in western Afghanistan.

Gardens of Babur: Relax in the historic Gardens of Babur in Kabul, which were laid out by the Mughal emperor Babur in the 16th century and offer beautiful views of the city.

National Museum of Afghanistan: Learn about Afghanistan's rich history and culture by visiting the National Museum of Afghanistan in Kabul, which houses a vast collection of artifacts dating back to ancient times.

Darul Aman Palace: Explore the ruins of Darul Aman Palace, a symbol of Afghanistan's turbulent history, located on the outskirts of Kabul.

Chakhcharan: Visit the town of Chakhcharan in Ghor Province, known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and traditional Afghan culture.

Ghazni: Explore the city of Ghazni, which was once an important center of Islamic culture and is home to historical sites such as the Ghazni Minarets and the Citadel of Ghazni.

Safi Landmark Hotel Rooftop: Enjoy panoramic views of Kabul from the rooftop of Safi Landmark Hotel, offering a unique perspective of the city.

Food and Culture: Experience Afghan cuisine and culture by sampling delicious dishes like kebabs, qabuli pulao, mantu, and Afghan tea while interacting with friendly locals.

#afghanistantour #afghantours #tour operators #holiday packages #travel

[sutrala]

One of Afghanistan's two UNESCO World Heritage sites lies in the Bamiyan Valley, located in the Hindu Kush mountains. Archaeologists have discovered Buddhist artwork there created between the first and 13th centuries. But the valley's most magnificent ancient work consists of...

[gokitetour]

10 Best Tourist Places in Afghanistan

Afghanistan, famously known for its eventful history, is truly an enchanting land blessed with breathtaking landscapes and hidden treasures. It is situated amidst the magnificent mountains of Central Asia and acts as a melting pot of ancient cultures and vibrant traditions. Despite its negative portrayal in the media, Afghanistan has an abundance of captivating tourist destinations that showcase its indomitable spirit and stunning beauty. Exploring the historical streets of Kabul, encountering the iconic remnants in Bamiyan, wandering through the picturesque valleys of Panjshir, and marvelling at the architectural marvels of Herat are some of the ways to experience the charm of this country. Each of these locations has a unique story to share about its vibrant past and unwavering resilience, inviting traveller’s to discover a side of Afghanistan that is often overlooked.

Here are some of the best tourist places in Afghanistan.

1.Kabul: Kabul's Attractions: Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, holds significant political and historical importance. It not only boasts notable sites such as the Darul Aman Palace, which recounts Afghanistan's turbulent past, and the Gardens of Babur, a serene retreat showcasing impressive Mughal architecture, but it also houses the Kabul Museum. Although the museum has suffered during times of war, it remains committed to preserving and showcasing the country's priceless heritage. Kabul successfully blends the old and the new, reflecting the unwavering resilience and determination of the nation.

2.Buddha statues of Bamiyan: A Mysterious Site: Bamiyan is well-known for its colossal Buddha statues, which were tragically demolished by the Taliban in 2001. However, the niches where these statues once stood still remain, preserving the grandeur of a past era. In addition to this tragedy, Bamiyan Valley offers stunning landscapes with towering cliffs and captivating beauty, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Furthermore, Bamiyan takes pride in being the home of Band-e Amir National Park, which showcases mesmerizing blue lakes, further adding to its charm.

3.Herat: The Mosque City: Located in the western part of Afghanistan is the captivating city of Herat, known for its rich historical background. The Herat Citadel, also known as the Iktyaruddin Fortress, stands proudly as a powerful symbol of the city's ancient heritage. Additionally, the Friday Mosque displays remarkable Islamic architecture, featuring intricate blue tiles. Wandering through the old part of town, visitors are enchanted by the charming bazaars and narrow lanes that evoke a sense of a bygone era.

4.The Blue Mosque is in Mazar-e-Sharif: Named after the stunning Blue Mosque or the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, which is believed to be the ultimate resting place of Ali, the cousin of Prophet Muhammad, Mazar-e Sharif is a city that is full of spirituality and awe. During the Afghan New Year, the city comes alive with lively celebrations and fairs, providing a truly vibrant and vivid spectacle for everyone who visits. By taking pleasure in a harmonious fusion of tradition and faith, Mazar-e Sharif offers a distinctive and lasting experience to its visitors.

5. Panjshir Valley: Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of the Panjshir Valley, a genuine gem in Afghanistan. This extraordinary destination is a haven for those seeking adventure and enthusiasts of nature, owing to its vibrant green landscapes, tranquil rivers, and majestic mountains. In addition to its natural wonders, the valley carries immense historical importance for its crucial role in the resistance against the Soviet occupation.

6.Kandahar: Welcome to Kandahar, the second-largest city in Afghanistan, where history and culture intertwine to captivate visitors. Be amazed by the captivating architecture of the Red Mosque, which is a prominent attraction in the city. Taking a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Old City of Kandahar, with its ancient marketplaces and traditional homes, provides a glimpse into the fascinating past of the city. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani, a remarkable historical landmark that serves as a testament to the city's rich heritage.

7. Band-e Amir National Park: Get ready to be amazed by this magnificent natural wonder, which consists of six breathtaking deep blue lakes, each separated by natural dams. As you explore, you'll be captivated by the surreal landscape that contrasts the vibrant azure waters with the barren, rocky surroundings. What adds even more intrigue to this place is the fascinating story behind the creation of these lakes, a combination of geological processes and local legends. Blending nature and culture, a visit to Band-e Amir guarantees an intriguing experience!

8. The Minaret of Jam: Prepare to be amazed by The Minaret of Jam, an astonishing UNESCO World Heritage site that stands at an impressive height of 65 meters. This architectural marvel, which dates back to the 12th century, serves as a true testament to the brilliance of that era. Located in a secluded valley alongside the remains of an ancient city, this minaret showcases intricate brickwork and captivating inscriptions. As you witness the cultural magnificence of the Ghurid Dynasty, you will be transported back in time. The Minaret of Jam is a destination that should not be missed, as it is guaranteed to leave you in awe!

9 Aynak:  If you are a history enthusiast, then Aynak is like a dream come true! This exceptional place is an archaeological site that houses artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age and the Buddhist era. Remarkable Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and a remarkably large statue of the Buddha can be found here. Regrettably, there is a mining project that presents a danger to this precious site. Nevertheless, dedicated efforts are currently being made to preserve and document these priceless relics. So, rest assured, the treasures of Aynak are being taken care of!

10. Faizabad: Faizabad is a small town located in the northeastern part of Afghanistan. It is known for its picturesque and peaceful setting, making it feel like a little piece of heaven. The town is blessed with the presence of the Kokcha River, which adds to its beauty. For those who love adventure, Faizabad serves as a starting point to explore the stunning Wakhan Corridor. This town is a hidden gem, offering a unique and less-visited experience for those who are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. If you crave tranquillity and want to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, Faizabad is a place you should definitely consider exploring!

Discover the wonders of Afghanistan - a country that offers more than meets the eye. With its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, Afghanistan is truly a hidden gem. Despite its troubled past, the resilience of this nation is reflected in its stunning tourist destinations. Whether you are seeking tranquillity in picturesque valleys or marvelling at grand historical landmarks, Afghanistan has something for every traveller. Thanks to Afghanistan visa services, exploring this beautiful country has never been easier. Not only will your visit open your eyes to its hidden treasures, but it will also contribute to Afghanistan's positive image. So why wait? Come and experience the timeless charm and untold stories of Afghanistan, with the convenience offered by Afghanistan visa services.

#Afghanistan Visa Service #Afghanistan Visa from India #Afghanistan visit visa from India #Afghanistan visit visa from Indian price #Afghanistan tourist visa from India #Afghanistan tourist visa

[drcpanda12]

Afghanistan is a country that is often associated with Islam, war, and violence. However, there is another side to this land that is rich in history, culture, and diversity. Afghanistan was once home to a vibrant and flourishing Hindu civilization that left behind many traces and impressions in the population, language, religion, and heritage of the country. This article will explore some of the aspects of the Hindu past in Afghanistan, and how they are still visible or relevant today. Received message. A possible introduction for the above article is: Afghanistan is a country that is often associated with Islam, war, and violence. However, there is another side to this land that is rich in history, culture, and diversity. Afghanistan was once home to a vibrant and flourishing Hindu civilization that left behind many traces and impressions in the population, language, religion, and heritage of the country. This article will explore some of the aspects of the Hindu past in Afghanistan, and how they are still visible or relevant today. Hindu Past in Afghanistan Some of the impressions of the Hindu past still seen in the population of Afghanistan are: Genetic and linguistic traces: According to some studies, some Afghan ethnic groups, such as the Pashtuns, have genetic and linguistic links to the Indo-Aryan peoples who inhabited the region in ancient times. The Pashto language, which is spoken by most Afghans, belongs to the Indo-Iranian branch of the Indo-European language family and has many words derived from Sanskrit, the ancient language of Hinduism. Some Pashtun tribes also claim descent from Hindu or Buddhist ancestors, such as the Afridi tribe, which traces its origin to Ashvaka, a Sanskrit term for horsemen Cultural and religious influences: Some aspects of Afghan culture and religion have been influenced by Hinduism over the centuries. For example, some Afghan names, such as Ram, Lila, Ravi, Raju, etc., are of Hindu origin. Some Afghan festivals, such as Nawroz (New Year), Basant (Spring Festival), and Shab-e-Barat (Night of Forgiveness), have similarities with Hindu festivals such as Holi, Vasant Panchami, and Diwali. Some Afghan Muslims also visit Hindu shrines or holy places, such as the shrine of Ganesha in Gardez, the temple of Nava Durga in Kabul, or the cave of Zunbils in Ghazni. Some Afghan Muslims also believe in reincarnation, karma, and astrology, which are concepts associated with Hinduism Historical and archaeological evidence: Some historical and archaeological evidence of the Hindu past can be seen in Afghanistan. For example, some ancient Hindu kingdoms and dynasties, such as the Kambojas, the Gandharas, the Kushans, the Turk Shahis, and the Hindu Shahis, ruled over parts of Afghanistan from the 2nd millennium BCE to the 10th century CE. They left behind coins, inscriptions, sculptures, temples, and monuments that testify to their presence and influence. Some of these remains can be seen in museums or sites such as Kabul Museum, Bamiyan Valley, Hadda Stupa Complex, Surkh Kotal Temple Complex, and Tepe Narenj Monastery Complex These are some of the impressions of the Hindu past still seen in the population of Afghanistan, but they are not very prominent or widely recognized by most Afghans or outsiders. Hindu Shahis Culture Art Architecture Some of the rich legacies left by the Hindu Shahis are: Coinage: The Hindu Shahis issued gold, silver, and copper coins that bore their names, titles, dates, and religious symbols. The coins were influenced by the Kushan, Sasanian, and Turkic styles, but also had distinctive features such as the recumbent bull, the horseman, and the Nagari script. The coins provide valuable information about the chronology, geography, and culture of the Hindu Shahis Temples: The Hindu Shahis built many temples in their domains, especially in Kabul, Udabhandapura, and Lahore. The temples reflected their Hindu faith and identity, as well as their artistic and a

rchitectural skills. The temples were decorated with sculptures, carvings, and paintings of various deities, scenes from Hindu mythology, and inscriptions. Some of the temples also served as royal mausoleums. The temples followed the Gandhara-Nagara style of architecture, which developed distinct formulations under the Hindu Shahis. A typical Hindu Shahi temple had two ground-level chambers embedded within a tower—leading to a minaret-like appearance—with an ambulatory at the top, that was accessible by a stairwell Sculpture: The Hindu Shahis produced many sculptures in stone, metal, and terracotta, depicting various aspects of their religion and culture. The sculptures ranged from small figurines to large statues and were influenced by the Gandhara, Gupta, and Kashmiri styles. The sculptures portrayed Hindu gods and goddesses, such as Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesha, Durga, and Lakshmi, as well as Buddhist icons such as Buddha and Bodhisattvas. The sculptures also depicted animals, birds, flowers, musicians, dancers, and warriors. Some of the sculptures were found in temples, while others were placed in public places or private homes Forts and settlements: The Hindu Shahis built many forts and settlements to protect their territories and administer their affairs. The forts were strategically located on hills or mountains, overlooking rivers or valleys. They were fortified with walls, towers, gates, and moats. They also had palaces, barracks, storerooms, wells, and temples inside them. The settlements were planned according to the principles of Vaastu Shastra and Shilpa Shastra, which are ancient Indian texts on architecture and design. The settlements had roads, markets, houses, gardens, ponds, and shrines. They also had schools, libraries, hospitals, and courts These are some of the rich legacies left by the Hindu Shahis that show their contribution to the history and culture of Afghanistan and India. Hindu Population Conversion to Islam in Afghanistan The conversion of the Hindu population to Islam in Afghanistan was a gradual and complex process that involved various factors such as political, economic, social, and cultural influences. According to some sources, some of the reasons for the conversion were: Military conquest and pressure: The Muslim invaders, such as the Arabs, Turks, Mongols, and Ghaznavids, who conquered parts of Afghanistan from the 7th to the 13th centuries, imposed their rule and religion on the local population. They often destroyed Hindu temples, shrines, and idols, and imposed taxes (jizya) and restrictions on non-Muslims. They also offered incentives and privileges to those who converted to Islam, such as land grants, protection, and exemption from taxes. Some Hindus converted to Islam to avoid persecution, discrimination, or violence, or to gain social and economic benefits Sufism and missionary activities: The Muslim mystics, known as Sufis, played a significant role in spreading Islam in Afghanistan through their preaching, teaching, and charitable works. They attracted many followers from different backgrounds, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Zoroastrians, by offering a more tolerant and inclusive version of Islam that emphasized love, devotion, and personal experience of God. They also established hospices (khanqahs), schools (madrasas), and shrines (ziarat) that served as centers of learning and worship for the local communities. Some of the famous Sufis who influenced Afghanistan were Ali al-Hujwiri (Data Ganj Bakhsh), Ahmad al-Ghazali, Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, Moinuddin Chishti, and Bahauddin Naqshband Cultural assimilation and syncretism: The Muslim invaders and settlers brought with them their own languages, customs, arts, and sciences that influenced the Afghan culture. Many Hindus adopted Arabic or Persian names, dress, food, and music. They also learned Arabic or Persian languages and literature, which were the mediums of education and administr

ation. Some aspects of Hindu culture, such as festivals, rituals, and legends, were also incorporated into Islam or adapted to suit the new context. For example, some Hindu gods and goddesses were revered as saints or prophets by some Muslims. Some Hindus also retained their caste identities or practices within Islam These are some of the possible explanations for how the Hindu population converted to Islam in Afghanistan after the fall of the Hindu Shahi dynasty. However, it is important to note that the conversion was not uniform or complete, as some Hindus resisted or maintained their faith in secret or in remote areas. Moreover, the conversion was not always forced or coerced, as some Hindus voluntarily embraced Islam out of conviction or curiosity. Therefore, the conversion should be understood as a dynamic and diverse phenomenon that varied according to time, place, and circumstance. Hindu Resistance to Conversion in Afghanistan There are some stories about resistance to conversion in Afghanistan, but they are not very well documented or widely known. Some of the examples are: The legend of Ganesha: According to a popular legend, the Hindu god Ganesha was once worshipped in a temple in Gardez, a city in eastern Afghanistan. When the Muslim invaders attacked the temple, Ganesha took the form of a boy and fought them with his trunk. He killed many of them but was eventually captured and taken to their camp. There, he revealed his true identity and cursed them with a plague. The invaders fled in fear and left the temple intact. The statue of Ganesha from Gardez is now attributed to the period of Turk Shahis in the 7-8th century CE The Rebellion of Kabul: In 1504 CE, the Mughal emperor Babur conquered Kabul and imposed Islam on the Hindu population. However, some Hindus refused to convert and rebelled against his rule. They formed a secret society called the Lohani, which means “iron” in Pashto. They wore iron rings on their fingers as a sign of their loyalty to their faith and their resistance to the Mughals. They also engaged in guerrilla warfare and assassinations against the Mughal officials and soldiers. The Lohani rebellion lasted for about 40 years until it was finally crushed by Babur’s grandson Akbar The martyrdom of Teja Singh: In 1832 CE, a Sikh leader named Teja Singh was captured by the Afghan ruler Dost Mohammad Khan during a battle near Jalalabad. He was offered a choice between conversion to Islam or death. He chose death and was executed by being blown by a cannon. His sacrifice inspired many Sikhs and Hindus to resist Afghan oppression and fight for their freedom. Teja Singh is revered as a martyr by the Afghan Sikhs and Hindus, who visit his shrine in Jalalabad every year The Last Hindu King of Afghanistan The year was 1001 CE. The Hindu Shahis, a dynasty that ruled over Kabul, Gandhara, and western Punjab for nearly two centuries, were facing their greatest challenge yet. The Ghaznavids, a powerful Muslim empire that had conquered most of Central Asia and Iran, had launched a massive invasion of their lands, led by their ambitious sultan Mahmud of Ghazni. The Hindu Shahi king, Jayapala, was determined to resist the invaders and defend his ancestral domains. He gathered a large army of his own warriors, as well as allies from other Hindu kingdoms such as the Pratiharas, the Tomaras, and the Utpalas. He also sought help from the Buddhist rulers of Kashmir and Tibet, who shared his concern about the Islamic expansion. The two armies met at the battle of Peshawar, near the Indus River. The Hindu Shahis fought bravely, but they were outnumbered and outmatched by the Ghaznavids, who had superior weapons, horses, and tactics. The battle turned into a massacre, as thousands of Hindu soldiers were slain or captured by the enemy. Jayapala himself was wounded and taken prisoner by Mahmud. Mahmud treated his captive with respect and offered him generous terms for

his release. He asked Jayapala to acknowledge him as his overlord and pay him a tribute of gold and jewels. Jayapala agreed to these conditions, hoping to save his kingdom from further destruction. However, when he returned to the capital of Udabhandapura (modern Und), he faced the wrath of his subjects and nobles. They accused him of cowardice and treason for surrendering to the Muslims. They also blamed him for the loss of their lands, wealth, and honor. They demanded that he abdicate his throne and make way for a new ruler who could restore their glory. Jayapala was heartbroken by this betrayal. He felt that he had no choice but to end his life. He built a huge funeral pyre and set himself on fire, along with his family and loyal followers. He died as a martyr, hoping that his sacrifice would inspire his people to fight. He was succeeded by his son Anandapala, who continued the struggle against the Ghaznavids. He managed to recapture some of the lost territories, but he could not stop Mahmud’s raids and plundering. He died in 1010 CE, after another defeat at the battle of Ohind. The Hindu Shahi dynasty gradually declined and collapsed under the pressure of the Ghaznavids and other Muslim invaders. The last Hindu king of Afghanistan was Trilochanapala, who was killed in 1026 CE by Mahmud’s son Mas’ud I. The Hindu Shahis left behind a rich legacy of culture, art, and architecture in their former domains. They built many temples, palaces, and monuments that reflected their Hindu faith and identity. They also patronized literature, science, and education, and preserved the ancient heritage of Gandhara and Kabulistan. They were remembered as brave and noble rulers who resisted foreign invaders with courage and dignity. Conclusion The Hindu past in Afghanistan is a fascinating and often overlooked aspect of the country’s history and culture. It shows that Afghanistan was not always a monolithic or homogeneous society, but rather a diverse and dynamic one that was influenced by various civilizations and religions. The Hindu past also reveals the resilience and creativity of the Afghan people, who have preserved or adapted some elements of their ancestral faith in the face of challenges and changes. The Hindu past in Afghanistan is a valuable and precious legacy that deserves to be recognized, respected, and protected by all. Handicrafts Paradise Resin Standing Krishna Idol (6.4 cm x 3.8 cm x 14.6 cm)

[kosmomusa]

Buddha Sculpture Bamiyan Valley, Afghanistan, 1992 (destroyed by the Taliban in 2001). Steve McCurry.

[thesociologicalcinema]

Buddha Sculpture Bamiyan Valley Afghanistan, 1992. The statue was destroyed by the Taliban in 2001. Photo credit: Steve McCurry

#steve mccurry #afghanistan #bamiyan valley #buddha #farming

[tuuguide]

Bu resme bakınca Yedikule bostanları aklıma geliyor. Toprağın olduğu yer ne kadar hayat dolu, Bamiyan Vadisi. Afganistan’da yer alan bu vadi okuduğum romanda anlatıldığına göre 9. yüzyılda müslüman arapların eline geçene kadar canlı, refahı bol bir budizm merkeziymiş. Tıpkı Kapadokya ve Anadolu’nun her yerinde ilk hıristiyanların yaptığı gibi budist keşişlerde kayalardan kendilerine hem barınmak hem oraya gelen hacıların sığınması için mağaralar ve kovuklar yapmışlar. Çatalhöyük’te ve dünyanın belki birçok yerinde insanların yaptığı gibi bu kovukların duvarlarına keşişler freskler yapmışlar. Öyle güzellermiş ki. 

#bamiyan vadisi #bamiyan valley #afganistan #afghanistan #cultural heritage #cultivation #culture #cult #C3 #buda #buda monuments #bin muhteşem güneş #khaled hosseini #kültürel miras #dünya mirası

[tumbling-dyce]

Pascal Maître, Bamiyan Valley in the Hazarajat, with the Buddhas carved into the rock face.

#Pascal Maître #Afghanistan #carved buddhas #Bamiyan Valley #landscape

[ancientorigins]

One of the most tragic examples of religious iconoclasm in recent history is the destruction of the two giant standing statues of Buddha by the Taliban in March 2001. These were the famed Buddhas of Bamiyan, which were carved into the side of a cliff in the Bamiyan Valley, in the Hazarajat province of central Afghanistan. But an ancient text suggests that there was a third gigantic Bamiyan Buddha statue in the past – a Buddha that has yet to be discovered.