The findings remind us of Kashmir’s glorious and plural cultural heritage: PM; archaeologists excited, call it a turning point for Kashmir’s heritage journey
Zehanpora, Baramulla: In a significant boost to archaeological research and heritage conservation in Jammu and Kashmir, the ongoing excavations at the Zehanpora archaeological site in Baramulla district have received appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 129th episode of Mann Ki Baat, marking a milestone moment for researchers working to uncover the region’s ancient past.
While highlighting Kashmir’s rich Buddhist heritage and the scientific revelations emerging from the excavation at this early historic site, Modi spoke of how archival research and a blurred 19th-century photograph discovered in a French museum brought the long-overlooked Buddhist ruins of Zehanpora Baramulla to light, prompting scientific surveys and subsequent excavation. He noted that these remains date back nearly 2,000 years to the Kushan period, underscoring Kashmir’s place in the ancient Buddhist world.
“These large human-made structures, revealed through scientific study and archival images, remind us of Kashmir’s glorious and plural cultural heritage,” the Prime Minister said in the broadcast.
The excavation, jointly conducted by the Department of Archives, Archaeology & Museums (DAAM), J&K, and the Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS), University of Kashmir, under the guidance of Project Director Dr Ajmal Shah, has been progressing systematically. The Prime Minister’s recognition of the work has been widely welcomed by the archaeological fraternity, who see it as a strong endorsement and acknowledgment of scientific heritage exploration in Kashmir.
Project Director Dr Ajmal Shah, while reacting to the appreciation, termed it “deeply encouraging and motivating” noting that it will inspire the research team to continue their work with increased patience and scientific commitment in the upcoming years.
“The recognition of our work at Zehanpora Baramulla by Prime Minister is extremely encouraging. It motivates us to continue working at the site in the coming years with greater patience, dedication, and scientific rigour,” Dr Shah said while talking to Kashmir Images.
Archaeologists believe Zehanpora holds immense potential not only for academic research but also for heritage and pilgrimage tourism, owing to its stratified cultural remains and religious significance.
Dr Shah emphasised the urgent need for institutional support and infrastructure development at the site.
“The site has great potential for heritage and pilgrimage tourism. Establishing a site museum here will be a game changer for heritage awareness and long-term conservation. The district administration must take a proactive role by demarcating the contours of the site to safeguard it for future research,” he added.
The excavation, which has already yielded valuable archaeological material has been stopped due to harsh winter, and is set to resume in May 2026, with expanded areas planned for investigation.
According to the project team, the site is rich in material culture, including structural remains and artefacts that promise to significantly enhance understanding of the historical evolution of north Kashmir.
Surveyor department of Archives and Archeology Dr Javid, who has been part of the excavation and survey team, highlighted the academic importance of the findings.
“Zehanpora offers rare archaeological continuity. The material culture emerging from the site will help bridge critical gaps in the historical narrative of the Kashmir Valley and place Baramulla prominently on the archaeological map of South Asia,” Dr Javid noted.
Zehanpora lies along an ancient cultural corridor close to the Jhelum River, a route historically associated with religious exchange and trade. Subsequent excavation has uncovered multiple stupas, apsidal structures, pottery and other artefacts suggesting the presence of a major Buddhist monastic complex dating to the Kushan dynasty (1st–3rd century CE) — a period when Buddhism flourished across northern India.
The site gained scholarly attention after archival research and satellite-based surveys indicated the presence of buried structures. Subsequent excavation confirmed these assumptions, revealing multiple stupas, apsidal structures, monastic remains, terracotta objects, pottery and other material culture associated with Buddhist occupation.
The district administration has also acknowledged the importance of the site. Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Minga Shirpa, while appreciating the efforts of the archaeological team, assured support for conservation and protection measures.
“Zehanpora is an asset of historical and cultural significance. The district administration will explore all possible measures to support research, demarcation, and preservation of the site in coordination with concerned departments,” the DC said.
Experts assert that Zehanpora not only expands knowledge of Kashmir’s early historic phase but also reinforces the Valley’s role as a crossroads of religious, cultural and commercial exchange in antiquity.
Officials say the next campaign of excavation is scheduled to resume in May 2026, with expanded trenches and focussed investigation across unexplored zones of the site. Archaeologists and surveyors emphasise that the site is rich in material culture and holds immense potential for heritage tourism, academic research and conservation awareness.
Local administration has been urged to proactively demarcate the archaeological contours, protect the site from encroachment, and consider development of an on-site museum, which experts say could be transformative for public engagement with the region’s ancient legacy.
As excavation continues and heritage stakeholders collaborate to preserve Zehanpora’s legacy, the Prime Minister’s acknowledgement today is likely to further energise efforts across academic, administrative and public domains.
Scholars see the Prime Minister’s appreciation as a turning point for archaeology in Jammu and Kashmir, likely to attract national attention, institutional funding and scholarly collaboration.
