New Delhi, Dec 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday celebrated the remarkable rediscovery of an ancient Buddhist complex in Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, revealing how a blurred photograph preserved in a French museum helped archaeologists uncover a nearly 2,000-year-old heritage site that had been hidden in plain sight for decades.
Addressing the 129th episode of Mann Ki Baat, his monthly radio programme, the Prime Minister described the discovery as a testament to Kashmir’s deep civilizational roots and a source of pride for the entire nation.
PM Modi recounted how the story began in the Jehanpora area of Baramulla district, where tall mounds scattered across the landscape had been dismissed as ordinary land formations for years. Local residents had no idea these structures held profound historical significance.
The breakthrough came when an archaeologist examining the site found the mounds unusual and initiated a detailed scientific investigation. Researchers deployed modern techniques including drone-based aerial photography and systematic land mapping to study the structures, ultimately revealing they were not natural formations but remnants of a large human-made complex.
A remarkable international connection emerged during the research. Thousands of kilometres away in France, investigators discovered a blurred, old photograph in a museum archive showing three Buddhist stupas located in Baramulla. This rare visual evidence proved crucial in helping researchers confirm the historical importance of the Jehanpora site and piece together its ancient past.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the discovery opened a window into Kashmir’s rich history, dating back nearly two millennia. He noted that the Buddhist complex highlights the region’s significant role in the spread and development of Buddhist culture in ancient times, establishing Kashmir as a major centre of learning, spirituality and cultural exchange.
“The rediscovered site at Jehanpora stands as a strong reminder of Kashmir’s rich identity and historical legacy,” PM Modi stated. He stressed that understanding and preserving such heritage is essential for connecting present generations with their roots and strengthening cultural pride.
The Prime Minister lauded how this discovery demonstrates the power of combining history, modern technology and international cooperation to revive lost chapters of India’s past. He concluded by saying that Jammu and Kashmir’s heritage continues to inspire and offers valuable lessons about harmony, knowledge and shared history that remain relevant today.
The rediscovery underscores Kashmir’s position as a significant cultural crossroads in ancient India and adds another layer to understanding the region’s diverse historical legacy.
