The survival of Buddha of Swat

This Buddha survived 2 major attacks, by the White Huns in 5th century A.D and then the recent Taliban militancy in Swat valley.

It is located close to Ghaligai caves, along the road to Swat valley.

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As was done to the Buddhas of Bamiyan in Afghanistan, this large Buddha in the Swat Valley was dynamited by the Taliban in the fall of 2007. Swat is ancient Udyana, and was home to 1400 stupas and monasteries, and 6,000 gold images of the Buddha. 400 Buddhist sites remain, including those said to contain relics of the Buddha. This priceless historical heritage is in serious danger and a sad fitting symbol of what this ill formed war has brought to the region and the world.
The author extends his deep appreciation to S.A. Saddeqe and Miriam Godet who graciously made their photo archives available to the author.

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