Author: A Selection
Publisher: Archaelogical Survey of India
Year: 2002
Language: English
Pages: 112
ISBN/UPC (if available): B003DRNUPY
Description
Bamiyan, situated about 250 Km north-west of Kabul is one of the important historical sites in Afghanistan. It was a symbol of the civilizational link between India and Afghanistan. This album on high quailty art paper documents the rich cultural heritage that Afghanistan once had.
Buddhism was introduced to the region first by Asoka and subsequently by the Kushan rulers. In the third century, the city of Bamiyan became an administrative center, a halting place for caravans and the location of a great monastery. It became famous when the Buddhist monks settled in the rock-caves cut into the great cliff to the north.
The Archaeological Survey of India had joined hands with the Government of Afghanistan to preserve this great cultural heritage of mankind. The work started on July 10, 1969 and was of such magnitude, that it continued for the next seven years.
The world organizations like UNESCO are continuing to mobilize support for the protection of Afghan Heritage and are considering reviewing the application of the World Heritage Convention to deal with wanton destruction.
The Archaeological Survey of India which carried out repairs to the two Bamiyan Buddhas and the shrines in their vicinity had also organized an international seminar and exhibition in 2001, and this album celebrates this occasion. .
Contents
Preface
Bamiyan - Historical and Archaeological Profile
Art and Architecture
ASI's Contribution towards preserving the Bamiyan Buddhas
Rich Cultural Heritage Destroyed
Exhibition and International Seminar
Restoration of Bamiyan: Indo-Afghan Co-operation