A historical study of Bamiyan Buddha statues in Afghanistan : the origins, features and preservation

Abstract

This research explores the historical and cultural significance of Bamiyan Buddha statues in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, their origins, features, and preservation. It mainly highlights the value of this unique heritage as a national asset of the country and the region of Bamiyan. The research examines the preservation of these statues throughout history in Afghanistan. It also aims at examining the cultural and archaeological legacy of Buddhism in Afghanistan and its preservation up to the present date on the example of two Bamiyan Buddha statues. To obtain these goals, this research utilized a qualitative method by textual analyses of primary and secondary sources. The first part of this research found that Afghanistan is a country of cultural crossroads that has been in constant contact through trade, immigration, imperialist structures, imitation, and ongoing conflict with the civilizations of Central Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and China. Therefore, all these various communications and periodic developments have led to the creation of unique historical and ancient treasures, architecture, art, and cultural heritage in Afghanistan, especially in the Bamiyan Valley. The second part of this research studied the spread of Buddhism in Afghanistan and particularly in Bamiyan region. The Buddhist artefacts and statues, their features, significance, and preservation were analysed as well. It was found that the ongoing wars had severely damaged the region's historical remnants, the most prominent of which is the destruction of Bamiyan Buddha statues. The study also examined ongoing threats to Bamiyan cultural and historical heritage and highlighted the necessity of serious efforts which are required to be undertaken to monitor their damage, prevention, and protection of ancient and historic sites. The research found that cultural and historical heritage can be an asset of any nation which can boost their economy by tourism industry as well as contribute positively in building national identity and cultural integrity.