Nimbus and Aureole around Buddha’s Images: A Study of Recent Archaeological Discoveries from Buddhist Complex of Abba Sahib Cheena, Swat, Pakistan.

Abstract

Abba Sahib Cheena is one of the important Buddhist Complexes in Swat Valley which is positioned in the lap of mountains (Landai mountains are surrounding it from west and south, Gerezgar range in east Suly Mora mountains in north). Recent and preliminary excavation conducted at the site has revealed many stone sculptures depicting rare episodes from the life of Buddha. The present paper is an attempt to evaluate different types of haloes i.e., nimbus/aureole surrounding the Buddha images recently reported from the site during archaeological field investigation. These types of haloes are rarely found in and outside the Gandhara. Body Halo (types) has not been investigated in detail prior to current research. However, the haloes illustrated around Buddha images from Abba Sahib Cheena are adorned with diversified motifs.