The world’s largest reclining Buddha statue was stored in the cellars of the Tajik Museum of Architecture and History for 30 years. This continued until the 2000s when various countries donated significant funds to restore the relic.
Tajikistan is home to an extraordinary historical monument known as the “Buddha in Nirvana”, the largest reclining Buddha in the world. Arkeonews writes that this massive terracotta figure, unearthed in the 1960s, has stood the test of time for more than 1,600 years, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries.
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This 12.8 m long and 2.7 m high Buddha has a unique place in history as a relic from the times before the spread of Islam, when Buddhism flourished in Central Asia and Afghanistan. Although the statue was found more than 30 years ago, it was stored in three separate pieces in the vaults of the Tajik Museum of Architecture and History as there was no money for its restoration.
The restoration process, which lasted from 2000 to 2001, was a decisive phase. Generous donations made a difference, particularly a significant grant of $30,000 from the United States and $260,000 from the Japanese government. The French non-governmental organization Agency for Technological Cooperation and Development also made a significant contribution to cover the expenses of the experts involved in the restoration.
Inaugurated on September 9, 2000, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of Tajikistan’s independence, the reconstructed Buddha is a testament to the cooperation between peoples in preserving a common heritage. Housed in a hall that recreates the style of a Buddhist monastery, the Buddha statue offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the ancient worship practices of the region.
Important
This important initiative is especially relevant for a country where more than 97% of the population embraces Islam. Tajikistan’s desire to preserve pre-Islamic artifacts demonstrates its tolerance and respect for different beliefs. The Buddha statue in Dushanbe, which is flocked by thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year, serves as a symbol of cultural richness and a bridge between the past and the future.
In this telling, the story of the Reclining Buddha in Tajikistan is not just about restoration, but also about celebrating the enduring spirit of international cooperation, cultural preservation, and shared history.
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Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.