Olympic delegates explore Gandhara heritage

A high-level delegation of the South Asian Olympic Council (SAOC), led by Pakistan Olympic Association President Arif Saeed, visited the historic Taxila Museum.

During their visit to the museum, the delegates viewed remarkable relics of the Gandhara civilisation, Buddhist artefacts and examples of ancient art, expressing keen interest in Pakistan's historical and cultural heritage.

The delegation comprised representatives from seven South Asian countries, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh.

The delegation is visiting Pakistan to review preparations for the 14th South Asian Games, scheduled to be held in the country in 2027.

Deputy Director SRO Taxila Muhammad Asim Dogar and museum curator Zubair Akhtar received the delegation upon its arrival.

The museum administration took the visitors through various galleries and provided detailed briefings on the historical background and artistic features of the preserved artefacts, as well as Taxila's role in the Gandhara civilisation.

The delegates showed particular interest in sculptures from the Gandhara period, statues of Buddha, religious and cultural artefacts, ancient coins, jewellery and other archaeological remains. They were informed that Taxila had historically served as an important centre where different civilisations, religions and cultures interacted.

During the briefing, the delegation was also informed about Taxila's ancient cities, monasteries, stupas and other archaeological sites.

Officials said the historical heritage of Taxila reflected the artistic, religious and cultural influences of the Gandhara civilisation, as well as centuries of cultural exchange across South Asia.