BUTKARA, is a site of great stupa mostly in ruined form, present the evolution of stupa form. At the site a succession of six stupas were built in proximity to each other. Each successive structure built on top of or enclosing the preceding one. The first of these stupas were built about the 3rd century BC. is a simple affair directly resting on the ground. After rising vertically to some height, it inclines inwards on a gentle curve to form a dome. It’s structure consists of stone boulders and small slabs carefully laid but without any real horizontal coursing. The dome proper consists of somewhat larger elongated slabs of schist with corners knocked off to give a curve. Externally it is devoid of any projection or any other architectural element.
Over time the basic stupa form was refined and enlarged in successive stages until a highly sophisticated form was developed. By the time the fourth stupa was built it was no longer a singular mass of masonry but was divided into two distinct tiers both cylindrical but with the upper set slightly backward from the lower. Wall faces were divided into panels by means of pilasters with capital and base.
The Butkara Stupa remnants in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, represent an integral part of the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage. These ancient remains, also known as the Butkara I Stupa, offer invaluable insights into the Buddhist civilization that once flourished in the Swat Valley. In this essay, we will explore the history, significance, and architectural features of the Butkara Stupa remnants.
Dating back to the Gandhara period, which spanned from the 1st century BCE to the 5th century CE, the Butkara Stupa remnants are believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Kushan Empire. The Kushan era marked a golden age for Buddhism in the region, with Swat Valley serving as a center for Buddhist art, culture, and learning. The Butkara Stupa, with its imposing presence and intricate design, was likely a focal point for religious ceremonies and pilgrimages.
The architectural features of the Butkara Stupa remnants are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of ancient builders. The stupa was originally a massive, domed structure, built to enshrine sacred relics or commemorate significant events in the life of the Buddha. While much of the stupa has been eroded by time and natural elements, fragments of its base and surrounding structures still stand, offering glimpses into its former grandeur.
The significance of the Butkara Stupa remnants extends beyond their architectural beauty. They serve as tangible links to the region’s Buddhist past, providing archaeologists and historians with valuable clues about ancient religious practices and artistic traditions. Excavations at the site have uncovered numerous artifacts, including sculptures, inscriptions, and decorative motifs, shedding light on the daily lives and beliefs of the people who once inhabited the Swat Valley.
Despite their historical importance, the Butkara Stupa remnants have faced threats from various sources, including natural erosion, looting, and encroachment. Efforts have been made to preserve and protect the site, with the Government of Pakistan declaring it a protected archaeological area. Conservation initiatives, supported by local communities and international organizations, have helped to stabilize the remaining structures and prevent further degradation.
In conclusion, the Butkara Stupa remnants stand as silent witnesses to the rich tapestry of history and culture that defines the Swat Valley. As we marvel at their ancient splendor and contemplate their significance, let us also recognize the importance of preserving and safeguarding these invaluable relics for future generations to appreciate and study. By protecting sites like the Butkara Stupa, we ensure that the legacy of our ancestors lives on for centuries to come.
Source: https://pakheritage.org/butkara-1/
https://travelpakistani.com/blogs/butkara-stupa—historical-place-in-mingora-swat/144