What emerged were Kushan-period Buddhist remains — stupas, structural foundations, and nearly two-millennia-old artefacts — refocusing attention on J&K’s integral place within Bharat’s ancient civilisation. The Buddhist philosophical tradition reached its zenith in the figure of Nagarjuna, the founder of Madhyamaka (the Middle Way) philosophy. The significance of Kashmir in Buddhist history becomes noticeable during the Kushan period, precisely the era to which the Zehanpora remains are dated. In this sense, Kashmir was not peripheral to global Buddhism — it was one of its crucial launchpadsMaterial evidence reinforces this legacy. Buddhism did not pass through Kashmir in silence; it debated, evolved, and radiated outward from here.

Source: Indian Express December 30, 2025 07:28 UTC