Empire 130. India meets Rome: Making the Image of the Buddha
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Mar 12, 2024 Explore the fascinating Kushan Empire, where Buddhism took root and thrived under its rulers. Discover how the Kushans, influenced by Roman art, transformed the depiction of the Buddha from abstract symbols to human-like statues. Uncover the cultural crossroads of Mathura, a hub of spiritual exchange, and trace the routes through which Buddhism spread to China. Reflect on the tragic destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas and learn about key figures like Kumara Jeeva, who bridged the gap between Indian and Chinese Buddhism.
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Kushan Influence
- The Kushan dynasty, though relatively unknown, significantly influenced Indian art and Buddhism's development.
- Their rule fostered a fertile period for religious and artistic expression, including the first Buddha statues.
Limited Kushan Knowledge
- Little detailed information exists on the Kushans beyond broad archaeological findings.
- Only King Kanishka holds recognition among modern Indians.
Kushan Migration & Cultural Exchange
- The Kushans, initially the Yuezhi, migrated to India due to Hun pressure, creating an early 'free trade zone'.
- This facilitated the spread of Buddhism and Indian culture northward.