The northern part of the Swat region, identified as the mythical Uddiyana in Buddhist literature, encompasses the southernmost extension of the mountain range known as the Hindu Raj. Italian archaeologists, have been conducting explorations in this densely populated central plateau.
Thanks to their persistent and increasingly fruitful research, the area has emerged as one of the most captivating centers of Gandharan Graeco-Buddhist art.
Uddiyana is considered a sacred or mythical land where important tantric transmissions are said to have taken place. The legends and stories about Uddiyana emphasize its role in the development and dissemination of esoteric Buddhist practices.
In the context of tantric Buddhism, there are tales about great teachers, often associated with Uddiyana, who received transmissions directly from celestial or transcendent sources. King Indrabhuti is a legendary figure said to have received tantric teachings in Uddiyana. The teachings are often attributed to the Buddha in the form of a tantric deity, such as Vajradhara.
The stupas are not only religious monuments but also important archaeological and cultural landmarks. They reflect the historical significance of Buddhism in the region and its contribution to art, architecture, and philosophy.
The Images show the Amluk- Dara Stupa and its Guardian and the Shakhorai Buddha of Manglawar. The Buddhas Face was destroyed bei radical islamists and was recovered later. Archeologists estimate the Buddhas age about 1700 years.
Images Shot on Sony A7IV & DJI Mavic 3 Classic
