The state of Bhopal boasts some of the most magnificent ancient structures, notably found in Sanchi Kanakhera, a charming village nestled under the gentle slopes of a hill, situated approximately 20 miles northeast of Bhopal. Yesterday, we had the opportunity to explore this captivating site, where we marveled at the stone sculptures and statues of the Buddha, alongside an ancient gateway.
These ruins have not only captivated the locals but also piqued the interest of European gentlemen. One such notable figure, Major Alexander Cunningham, spent several weeks in this vicinity meticulously examining and studying these ruins. He documented his findings in an English publication, where he described the results of his investigations, including drawings of the site and deciphering inscriptions. The historical account of these remarkable ruins and their exploration has been preserved in the book "Taj-ul Iqbal Tarikh Bhopal" by Shahjehan Begum, the Nawab of Bhopal (ruled 1868-1901), and translated by H.D. Barstow in 1876. |
