Parihaspora

Parihaspora, a Heritage Place in Kashmir

An organisation recently led several Kashmiri organisations on a heritage tour to connect the next generation with their ancestral roots and symbols of identity.

However, it seems they may not have visited Parihaspora.

To understand Parihaspora's importance, it is helpful to know that it is located roughly 25 kilometres northwest of Srinagar in Kashmir. The sizable site—often called "Kani Shahar" or City of Stones—is the remnants of the 8th-century capital city built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida of the Karkota Dynasty. Here one can find the remains of massive Hindu temples, stupas, and a Buddhist monastery.

At this ancient site, fragments of magnificent structures remain, once housing gold and silver statues of Vishnu and a massive copper Buddha. Historical records suggest that Parihaspora once had a Vishnu Temple larger than the Martand Sun Temple at Awantipora.

Eventually, Parihaspora lost its capital status when Lalitaditya's son relocated the Capital, marking another significant turning point in its history.

Today, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) manages the site, preserving its historical remains.

Looking at the legacy of its builder, King Lalitaditya Muktapida, often called the "Alexander of Kashmir," was the most powerful ruler of the 8th century. His campaigns reached Central Asia, Afghanistan, and the Gangetic plains, demonstrating exceptional administrative and strategic skills.

Among his many achievements, he built the Martand Sun Temple, which is an architectural marvel of India.

Studying King Lalitaditya's reign is therefore essential for understanding several key aspects of ancient Kashmir and Indian history. He is even credited as a "world conqueror."

Supporting this view, Kalhana writes that Lalitaditya led campaigns deep into Central Asia, Afghanistan, and the Gangetic plains, displaying unparalleled administrative and strategic genius.

Additionally, although he was a Shaivite Hindu, his empire was characterised by immense religious harmony. The state extended patronage to Buddhism, including the construction of large monasteries and stupas.

Despite these achievements, Indian historians have often overlooked King Lalitaditya, partly because of the central government's well-known narratives.

Therefore, if we are to link our roots to our ancestors, it is imperative to understand the ancient Hindu and Buddhist rule in the Kashmir Valley, which ended permanently in 1339 CE with the death of Queen Kota Rani.

In conclusion, any tour of our Heritage is incomplete without a visit to Parihaspora. The site remains a sad reminder of the glorious age of Lalitaditya.