Excavations at the 2,000-year-old Buddhist site in Zehanpora, Baramulla, Kashmir, have brought renewed focus to the region's historical significance in ancient Buddhist civilization. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the site, dating back to the Kushan period, in his 'Mann Ki Baat' address. The discovery is relevant for understanding Kashmir's role as a conduit between the Indian heartland and wider Buddhist networks, with historical connections to Emperor Ashoka's establishment of monasteries and stupas in the region.