RAWALPINDI: More than 100 sculptures inspired by the ancient art of Gandhara were showcased at the Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC).

Punjab Arts Council Director General Saman Rai inaugurated the exhibition. More than 100 sculptures, including those of Buddha, made by Mohammad Shafiq and Tariq Butt have been put on display.

The exhibition’s participants were of the view that people in the country were extremely talented and the country’s culture must be preserved through art.

Gandhara is the mirror of a complete civilisation, Ms Rai said, adding that, “Gandhara art is actually the essence of Greek, Saka, Parthian and Kishan civilisations.

“The art of carving, sculpting, painting and engraving that came into existence was called Gandhara art”.

Gandhara civilisation gives the message of peace, love and brotherhood. “We need to tell the world that Pakistan has the world’s oldest civilisations of Gandhara, Harappa and Mohenjodaro, which the government of Pakistan has restored to its original condition,” she said.

“This civilisation is one of the oldest in the world and the art recovered from the ruins of the civilisation in Taxila has been acknowledged around the world. The art is handed down from one generation to another from thousands of years, she added.

Former RAC resident director Naheed Manzoor said: “There is a dire need to formulate a comprehensive strategy to transfer Gandhara art to new generations. By promoting Gandhara culture and art, we can increase foreign tourism which will give Pakistan a positive face in front of the world.”

RAC Director Waqar Ahmed said the Punjab government had preserved Gandhara culture in the Taxila Museum.

“The Punjab government has also announced to hold the Gandhara Mela in which foreign ambassadors, institutions and officials from NGOs in Pakistan will be invited,” he said.

The arts council was trying to provide a platform to artists to present their talent and in this regard, it was holding exhibitions so that the new generation will know about their history.

The exhibition will continue till July 31.

Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2022