GANDHARA Meaning and
Definition
-
Gandhara is a term that refers to both an ancient kingdom and an art style that flourished in the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent, present-day Afghanistan and Pakistan.
As a kingdom, Gandhara was located in the ancient region of Gandhara, which encompassed parts of eastern Afghanistan, the Swat Valley in Pakistan, and the Peshawar Valley in modern-day Pakistan. It was known for its strategic location along the Silk Road, which facilitated cultural and trade exchanges between the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and the surrounding regions.
The term Gandhara also refers to an influential art style that emerged in the region during the 1st century BCE and lasted until the 5th century CE. The Gandhara art style was a unique blend of Greco-Roman, Persian, and regional Indian influences. It is characterized by the depiction of Buddha and other Buddhist figures in a realistic, naturalistic manner, incorporating elements of Greek and Roman artistic techniques, including the use of drapery, idealized facial features, and classical proportions.
Gandhara art had a significant impact on the development of Buddhist art in the region, with its distinctive style spreading to other parts of Central Asia and influencing subsequent artistic traditions. It played a crucial role in the visual representation of Buddhism and the dissemination of Buddhist iconography beyond the Indian subcontinent, contributing to the spread of Buddhism into Central Asia and eventually to East Asia.
Common Misspellings for GANDHARA
Etymology of GANDHARA
The word "Gandhara" originates from the Sanskrit language. It is believed to be derived from a combination of two Sanskrit words – "gandha" meaning "fragrance" or "sweet smell", and "ara" meaning "place" or "country". Therefore, "Gandhara" can be translated to mean "the land of fragrance" or "the land with a sweet smell". The name is often associated with an ancient region located in present-day northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan, which was renowned for its cultural and artistic contributions during various historical periods.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
