UNESCO Nomination and Historical Corrections at Sarnath
Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site near Varanasi, has been nominated by India for the UNESCO World Heritage List. As preparations for a UNESCO team visit are underway, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) plans to install a revised plaque at Sarnath, acknowledging the local ruler's family for its preservation instead of the British.
Proposed Revision of Historical Attribution
- Family Proposal: Descendants of Babu Jagat Singh proposed revising the main plaque to credit Jagat Singh for highlighting Sarnath's archaeological significance in 1787-88, rather than 1798.
- Current Perception: The existing plaque credits British archaeologists Duncan and Col E Mackenzie for discovering the site's importance in 1798.
- Historical Correction: The ASI plans to update the plaque based on new findings that align with the family's claims.
Efforts by Jagat Singh
- Archaeological Discoveries: Jagat Singh ordered excavations that led to the discovery of Buddhist relics, now partially housed at the Asiatic Society in Kolkata.
- Previous Plaque Adjustments: Earlier in the year, the ASI revised a plaque at the Dharmarajika Stupa to reflect Jagat Singh's contributions more accurately.
- Recent Excavations: Archaeologist B R Mani's excavations in 2013-14 provided insights into the activities at Sarnath before Ashoka's time.
Sarnath's Historical and Cultural Significance
- Buddhist Heritage: Sarnath hosts structures from the 3rd century BC to the 11th century, including the Dharmarajika Stupa.
- Religious Crossroads: While primarily a Buddhist site, Sarnath also holds importance for Jainism.
- National Symbolism: The Ashoka pillar at Sarnath represents India's national emblem.
- International Appeal: The site includes multilingual plaques to accommodate tourists, particularly from South Asia, due to its Buddhist significance.
Global Recognition Efforts
India has been promoting itself as the land of Buddha, taking steps to protect its heritage, such as issuing legal notices to halt the auction of Buddhist relics by Sotheby’s Hong Kong.