How a Buddhist prince opened Kashmir's gates for Islamic rule Recent excavations at Zehanpora in Baramulla have unearthed Kushan-era stupas along the ancient Silk Route, confirming Kashmir's role as a Buddhist hub of learning. But, the transition of Kashmir from a Hindu kingdom to Islamic rule is an equally fascinating story, written, ironically, by a Buddhist prince who came to the Valley as a refugee. AdvertisementRecent excavations at Zehanpora in Baramulla have unearthed Kushan-era stupas. (Pic: ANI YouTube grab)Sandipan SharmaUPDATED: Dec 29, 2025 10:29 ISTIn the shadow of a priest's refusal, a Buddhist prince kneeled before a Sufi, unlocking Kashmir's gates to Islam and igniting a saga of queens, sieges, and shattered thrones. Recent excavations at Zehanpora in Baramulla have unearthed Kushan-era stupas along the ancient Silk Route, confirming Kashmir's role as a Buddhist hub of learning.
