Kashmir Smast facts for kids
The Kashmir Smast caves are a fascinating group of natural caves found in the Babozai mountains in northern Pakistan. These caves are made of limestone, a type of rock often found in caves. Over many centuries, people made these natural caves even bigger. They were used by different groups of people, from the ancient Kushan Empire to later kingdoms known as the Shahi periods. These caves hold many secrets about the past!
Contents
Exploring the Kashmir Smast Caves
The Kashmir Smast caves are a series of natural caves. They are located in the Mardan Valley in the Babozai mountains. This area is in the northern part of Pakistan. The caves are made from limestone, a soft rock that water can slowly carve out over time.
How the Caves Were Used
While the caves started naturally, people expanded them over many years. This means they dug out parts of the caves to make them larger or create new rooms. People used these caves for different purposes. They might have been places for shelter, religious worship, or even hiding.
Ancient Empires and Kingdoms
The caves were used during several important historical periods. These include the time of the Kushan Empire and later the Shahi periods.
The Kushan Empire
The Kushan Empire was a powerful kingdom that existed from about the 1st to the 3rd century AD. It covered a large area, including parts of modern-day Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India. The Kushans were known for their rich culture and for spreading Buddhism. They likely used the Kashmir Smast caves for religious activities or as safe havens.
The Shahi Periods
After the Kushan Empire, the Shahi dynasties ruled parts of this region from the 7th to the 11th centuries AD. There were two main Shahi dynasties: the Turk Shahis and the Hindu Shahis. They continued to use and expand the caves. These rulers often built temples and other structures. This shows the caves were important religious sites for a long time.
Amazing Discoveries in the Caves
Archaeologists and explorers have found many interesting things inside and around the Kashmir Smast caves. These discoveries help us understand the people who lived there long ago.
Wooden Sculptures
In the 1880s, a British officer named Major Harold Arthur Deane explored the caves. He found beautiful wooden sculptures. One of these is a detailed wooden panel that is now kept in the British Museum. This carving shows the amazing artistic skills of the people from the 9th or 10th centuries AD.
Ancient Coins and Seals
Other finds include old coins and personal seals. A bronze seal was found that belonged to someone named Sri Randrokshi. This seal dates back to around 375-400 AD. Another exciting discovery is a bronze coin showing a Hunnic Queen. The Huns were a nomadic group who moved into this region around that time. These items give us clues about the people, their leaders, and their beliefs.
Religious Importance
The artifacts found suggest that the caves were important religious sites for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Many statues and carvings related to these religions have been discovered. This shows that people from different faiths used the caves for worship over centuries.
Images for kids
-
View of one of the caves from the Kashmir Smast
-
One of the wooden sculptured panels discovered by Major H.A. Deane in the 1880s that is now in the British Museum, 9th-10th centuries AD.
See also
In Spanish: Cueva Cachemira para niños
