In a gesture that symbolizes the strengthening of cultural ties between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, acclaimed artist Mueen Saheed has presented five of his paintings to the historic Shah Allah Ditta caves, commonly known as the Buddha Caves, located in Islamabad.
This unique donation pays homage to the shared cultural heritage between the two nations and highlights Saheed’s dedication to capturing the history of sacred sites through his abstract narrative style.
Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and National Heritage, Attaullah Tarar, who invited Saheed to depict the storied past of the Buddha Caves, commended the artist’s contribution to promoting tourism in Pakistan. Saheed’s artworks for the site trace a layered history—from relics of the Buddhist era to Hindu and Mughal influences—celebrating the diverse heritage these caves represent.
The Buddha Caves, once a meditation site for monks and later used by Hindu and Muslim ascetics, hold ancient murals dating back to the 8th century and remain a deeply revered historical landmark. Saheed’s pieces will be displayed prominently to invite visitors to reconnect with the ancient past. “It is my hope that these paintings not only honour the history but also inspire a new appreciation for this remarkable site,” Saheed shared.
The collection will also serve as a visual bridge between the traditions of Sri Lanka and Pakistan, spotlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage and inviting future generations to explore these symbolic connections.
