Two Decades After Destroying the Bamiyan Buddhas, Taliban Now Claim to Protect Afghanistan’s Heritage

Two Decades After Destroying the Bamiyan Buddhas, Taliban Now Claim to Protect Afghanistan’s Heritage

Last Updated Apr - 23 - 2025, 02:11 PM | Source : Fela News

Years after demolishing the iconic Bamiyan Buddhas, the Taliban now vow to safeguard Afghanistan's ancient relics. Experts remain cautiously optimistic as prese

In March 2001, the Taliban shocked everyone by detonating the giant BUddhas of Bamiyan. Two decades later, they’re back in power and have reportedly changed strides by preserving Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage sites including pre-Islamic relics. 

Even months before their takeover in 2021, they spoke about protecting ancient artefacts in the country, sparking scepticism amongst observers. 

“All have an obligation to robustly protect, monitor and preserve these artefacts” the Taliban authorities declared in February that year.

Since the Taliban returned to power, archaeological discoveries—especially those linked to Buddhism—have increased, with authorities actively publicising findings. In Laghman province, caves believed to be 2,000-year-old Kushan-era storage rooms have been found, along with Brahmi inscriptions and a stone used for winemaking. “These ancient sites prove people lived here thousands of years ago,” said Mohammed Yaqoub Ayoubi, the local culture department head, emphasizing the Taliban's commitment to preserving them.

In Ghazni, officials stress the importance of safeguarding Buddhist relics for future generations. During their previous rule, the Taliban destroyed the iconic Bamiyan Buddhas, but current actions show a shift. In 2021, they reopened the Afghan National Museum and later partnered with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture to protect the Mes Aynak Buddhist site.

Experts believe the Taliban, mindful of their damaged global image, are now more open to preserving tangible heritage. However, intangible culture—music, dance, folklore—remains restricted, especially where women are involved. Despite financial and staffing challenges, and ongoing looting, heritage professionals remain “cautiously optimistic” about the future, though security risks and resource shortages continue to hamper preservation efforts.

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