HARIPUR: Pakistan has unveiled remains of a 1,700 year old sleeping Buddha image, part of an initiative to encourage tourism and project religious harmony in a region marred by Islamist militancy. In a reflection of the diverse culture of Pakistan, the ancient Buddhist site was first discovered in Bhamala province in 1929. Excavations resumed 88 years later and the 14 metre long Kanjur stone Buddha image was unearthed.
Director of Bhamla's archaeology and museums department, Abdul Samad said, “This is from the 3rd century AD, making it the world's oldest sleeping Buddha remains. We have discovered over 500 Buddha objects and this 48 foot long sleeping Buddha remains.” Opposition leader Imran Khan, who was present at the presentation, said, “It's a question of preserving these heritage sites which are an asset for our country.” The site was once the centre of Buddhist civilisation that found strength under Mauryan King Ashoka's rule 2,300 years ago. Minorities in Pakistan have often been targeted by right-wing groups, finding no solace in successive governments that have remained reluctant to embrace the country's non-Muslim heritage.
Recent attempts by the government to improve the country's image included overtures to minority communities by the ruling PML-N.
