Historians estimate that Thull Mir Rukan was constructed between 200 BCE and 1100 CE, possibly predating the Kushan period
- Archaeological excavations at the site yielded numerous baked terracotta figurines of Gautama Buddha
Aziz Kangrani
Thull Mir Rukan is among the most significant Buddhist archaeological monuments in Sindh province of Pakistan. Representing a rare and comparatively well-preserved stupa, the site reflects the historical spread, architectural traditions, and religious practices of Buddhism in the region. This article examines the historical context, architectural features, archaeological investigations, and scholarly interpretations associated with Thull Mir Rukan, situating it within the broader framework of Buddhist heritage in Sindh.
A thull refers to a Buddhist place of worship, known in Sanskrit as stūpa and in Pāli as thūpa, commonly rendered in English as stupa. Buddhism spread extensively across Sindh as well as the wider Gandhara region, particularly during the Mauryan period under Emperor Ashoka (r. 268–232 BCE). The religion remained influential in Sindh until at least the 7th century CE, with some scholars suggesting its continued presence until the 13th century CE. This prolonged period of Buddhist dominance resulted in the construction of hundreds of stupas throughout Sindh, among which Thull Mir Rukan occupies a distinctive position.
Thull Mir Rukan is situated approximately 10 kilometers east-southeast of Daulatpur Safan in Taluka Sakrand, within the present-day Benazirabad (formerly Nawabshah) District. No reliable historical documentation or oral tradition conclusively explains the origin of its name. However, it is plausible that, like many stupas in Sindh, it was named during the Islamic period after a nearby settlement or a local individual. The prevalence of place names incorporating the term thull, the existence of the Ruk clan, and villages named Rukan in Sindh support the hypothesis that the monument was named after an individual known as Mir Rukan.
Historians estimate that Thull Mir Rukan, along with other Buddhist monuments in Sindh, was constructed between approximately 200 BCE and 1100 CE, possibly predating the Kushan period. Architecturally, the stupa differs from others in the region and is notable for being one of the few that can be described as largely complete. Its distinctive design and relatively intact structure underscore its importance in the study of Buddhist architecture in Sindh.
According to the Encyclopedia Sindhiana, J. Gibbs provides a detailed description of the monument. He notes that the stupa is visually striking even from a distance and is located near a railway line, raising the possibility that some of its bricks were removed during railway construction. The structure is circular and robust, tapering gradually toward the summit, and stands approximately 60 feet high. The exterior is constructed of well-fired bricks and rests upon three superimposed square tiers of foundations.
Above the square foundations are decorative brick bands and a cornice, intricately carved with floral and ornamental motifs. Notably, many of these bricks were carefully carved rather than molded, and their sharply defined edges remain visible. In certain sections, molded bricks bearing refined floral designs are also present. Surrounding the base of the stupa is a mound of bricks and earth, approximately 10 feet high, structurally integrated with the foundations.
Archaeological excavations at the site yielded numerous baked terracotta figurines of Gautama Buddha. Among these were figurines depicting significant episodes from the Buddha’s life, including his birth and his departure from his household life. These artifacts, measuring approximately six to seven inches square, exhibit a high level of artistic skill and craftsmanship, contributing valuable insight into the iconographic traditions of the region.
Mr. J. Gibbs, accompanied by Bartle Frere and Shastriwart, conducted early excavations at the site, referring to it as the “Rukan Stupa.” Gibbs records that local laborers had already excavated tunnels into the structure in search of relics. On 27 February 1852, the excavation team established a camp near the stupa and continued their investigation, ultimately reaching the lowest level of the foundations without discovering any significant relics. The exposed square foundation measured 66 feet on each side, and the construction materials were noted to have been transported from distant locations.
According to the Sindh Gazetteer (p. 638), the excavation was carried out under the supervision of General John Jacob, Acting Commissioner of Sindh at the time. A parallel tunnel was also excavated from the outer side of the structure, yet no noteworthy findings were reported.
In approximately 1978, writers from Sakrand discovered a fallen brick from the upper portion of the stupa bearing an engraved image of Gautama Buddha. This artifact was preserved in a local library for several years, though it later suffered deterioration and discoloration. The upper section of the stupa, which had sustained damage over time, has since been restored by the Sindh Department of Culture. Portions of the foundations remain preserved below ground level, attesting to the monument’s original scale and construction.
Thull Mir Rukan stands as one of the most significant Buddhist archaeological monuments in Sindh. Its architectural completeness, decorative sophistication, and associated material culture offer valuable insights into the religious, artistic, and historical landscape of Buddhism in the region. Despite limited archaeological findings in terms of relics, the monument’s historical and cultural significance remains firmly established, warranting continued scholarly attention and conservation efforts.
Read: Traces of the Pali Language in Sindh
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Aziz Kingrani, hailing from village Haji Manik Kingrani, Johi, Dadu District, Sindh, Pakistan, is poet, short story writer, playwright and a researcher. He has been contributing in the fields of history and literature. He has served as a professor as well. His 17 books are published in English and Sindhi language.
