This article explores the recent developments regarding the preservation of ancient Buddha statues in Mes Aynak, Afghanistan. Despite their past choices, the Taliban regime has assured to protect these historical structures, showcasing a marked change from their previous rule when they destroyed the centuries-old Buddha statues in Bamiyan. This article will delve into the background of the Taliban’s destruction of Bamiyan, its current status, and the importance of the Bamiyan Buddhas. It will then discuss Buddhism’s key facts and its connection to Indian heritage sites and literature.
The Taliban’s Shift on Preservation of Historical Sites
The Taliban movement, which gained control over nearly 90% of Afghanistan by the late 1990s, is known for its hardline ideologies. They introduced a form of governance that curbed lawlessness but also practiced “Islamic punishments” and a regressive Islamic lifestyle. During their earlier regime, they destroyed the Bamiyan Buddhas, symbols of Afghanistan’s rich cultural history. However, in recent developments, the Taliban have pledged to protect the Buddha statues in Mes Aynak, showing a significant shift in their stance.
The Background of Taliban’s Destruction of Bamiyan
The extremists’ culture prevalent during the Taliban’s former rule led to the destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas. Their intent was declared on February 27, 2001, which led to worldwide outrage. These actions were part of their regressive approach that also included banning television, public executions, and the denial of education to girls aged 10 and above.
Status After Bamiyan Buddhas’ Destruction
In the aftermath of their destruction, UNESCO listed the remains of the Bamiyan Buddhas as world heritage sites in 2003. On March 9, 2021, a 3D projection of the statues was showcased, symbolizing their recreation in spirit.
The Historical Importance of Bamiyan Buddhas
The Bamiyan Buddha statues, carved out of sandstone cliffs around the 5th century AD, were once the world’s tallest standing Buddhas. They exhibited a blend of Gupta, Sassanian, and Hellenistic artistic styles. Located in the high mountains of the Hindu Kush in Afghanistan’s central highlands, Bamiyan was an essential trade, cultural, and religious center during the Buddhist Kushan Empire’s reign. It fostered a syncretic culture, which is reflected in Bamiyan’s landscape even today.
Buddhism: An Overview
Buddhism, over 2,500 years old, is a major religion in South and South-Eastern Asian countries. Founded by Siddhartha Gautama in the 6th century BC, Buddhism advocates for change and de-emphasizes the existence of a personal God. The focus is on achieving enlightenment through morality, meditation, and wisdom. There are several Buddhist sects, including Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism.
Life and Teachings of Siddhartha Gautam
Siddhartha Gautam, born around 563 BCE into a royal family, renounced his life of luxury at the age of 29. He embraced asceticism and, after 49 days of uninterrupted meditation, reached Bodhi (enlightenment) under a pipal tree located in present-day Bihar. He delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, near Benares in Uttar Pradesh, marking the commencement of Dharma-Chakra-Pravartana (turning of the wheel of law).
Examination Questions Related to Buddhism
In past UPSC Civil Services Examinations, aspirants have been asked questions related to Buddhism. For instance, in 2018, the question was about identifying the future Buddha expected to save the world. The answer was Maitreya. In 2013, another question revolved around the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism. Nirvana signifies the extinction of the flame of desire according to Buddhist principles. In 2012, a question tested aspirants’ knowledge about Buddha’s ‘Bhumisparsha Mudra’, which symbolizes Buddha’s victory over temptations and enlightenment.
