The Buddhas of Bamiyan once towered over Afghanistan’s Bamiyan Valley, 6th-century Gandharan marvels carved into sheer cliffs, radiating peace and devotion. In 2001, they were destroyed, leaving behind vast, silent niches, haunting echoes of a sacred past. Yet, their absence still speaks. The Bamiyan Valley remains a symbol of resilience, cultural identity, and the enduring spirit of the Hazara people. Through efforts like UNESCO’s Bamiyan Cultural Center, the valley is being reimagined, blendin

Taliban members are seen patrolling the ancient Bamiyan Buddhas ruins 20 years after the group destroyed its giant Buddha statues amidst widespread criticism bit.ly/3a2Of6w | The National